Chapter 18.5, Problem

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Given the value of ${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}$ , the percent dissociation for the given concentration of $\text{HCN}$ has to be calculated.

Concept Introduction: $\text{HCN}$ will dissociate very little because $\text{HCN}$ has a small value of ${\text{K}}_a$ . ${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}$ is the negative logarithm of ${\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ . ${\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ gives the ratio of the concentrations of the products to the reactants.