Chapter 18, Problem 18.4YT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Using the appropriate pKa values to determine the numerical factor by which the reactant side is favored, it is to be verified that the equilibrium between HCN and ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ in equation 18-7 heavily favors the reactants.

Concept introduction:

In an acid-base reaction, the side with the weaker acid and base is favored. The factor by which this side is favored over the other can be determined from the difference in pKa values of the acids on the two sides, as ${\text{10}}^{\text{Δ(pKa)}}$.