Chapter 17, Problem 101SAE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The compound that is added in the solution to increase the ionization of formic acid should be identified

Concept introduction:

The strength of an acid refers to its degree of ionization. The acid that ionizes completely is termed as a strong acid whereas the acid that undergoes partial ionization is a weak acid. $\text{HCl}$ and ${\text{HNO}}_3$ are strong acids while ${\text{CH}}_3\text{COOH}$, $\text{HF}$ and ${\text{H}}_3{\text{PO}}_4$ are weak acids.

According to the Le Chatelier’s principle, when a system in its dynamic equilibrium is subjected to the change in concentration, temperature, volume or pressure, it will adjust to diminish the changes made to it. The equilibrium shifts in the opposite direction so as to offset the change.