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Ka and KB PDF
Ka and KB PDF
If we write an equilibrium constant for the top reaction, where NH4+ donates H+
to water, we are describing the dissocation of a weak acid (the equilibrium of
an acid with its conjugate base), and we would call the equilibrium constant Ka
1
[NH3][H3O+]
= 1.8 105 =
Ka =
[NH4+]
Kb
(B)
If we write an equilibrium constant for the bottom reaction, where NH3 accepts
H+ from water, we are describing the equilibrim of a base with its conjugate
acid, and we would call the equilibrium constant Kb
Kb =
[NH4+]
[NH3][H3O+]
= 1.8 105 =
1
Ka
So, if ALEKS ever tells you the value of Kb, remember that Kb = 1/Ka