Chapter 14, Problem 72QRT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason why $BaC{O}_3$ is soluble in aqueous $HCl$ but $BaS{O}_4$ is not soluble in aqueous $HCl$ has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Acid ionization constant$\left(K_a\right)$:

The ionization of a typical acid can be written as follows,

  $HA\left(aq\right)\to H^{+}\left(aq\right)+A^{-}\left(aq\right)$

An acid ionization constant is the equilibrium constant for the above reaction.

  $K_a=\frac{\left[H^{+}\right]\left[A^{-}\right]}{\left[HA\right]}$

The larger value of equilibrium constant for an acid-base neutralization reaction indicates that more product will be formed.  That means the reaction is product-favored.