Chapter 2.2, Problem 5P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether butyric acid is stronger or weaker acid than Vitamin C has to be predicted.

Concept Introduction:

Acid dissociation constant, $K_a$: The degree to which an acid (HA) dissociates in an aqueous solution is indicated by the acid dissociation constant.

${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}\text{= }\text{- log}{\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$

The stronger the acid, the more readily it loses a proton. Value of $p{K}_a$ is smaller for the Stronger the acid.