Chapter 19, Problem 67A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : A strong acid has a large or a small ${\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ is to be explained.

Concept Introduction : Acids are substances that contain hydrogen and ionize to produce hydrogen ions $\left({\text{H}}^{\text{+}}\right)$ in an aqueous solution.

Answer to Problem 67A

A strong acid has a large dissociation constant value.

Explanation of Solution

The acid dissociation constant is the ratio of an acid's dissociated concentration to its undissociated form concentration.

It contains both the anion and the hydronium ion.

In water, a strong acid ionizes.

The amount of an acid that is ionized is represented by the acid dissociation constant.

A more complete acid ionization will result in a higher dissociation constant.

Thus, strong acids ionize more and so the dissociation constant will be higher.