Ionization Constant
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Ionization Constant
In lecture, Dr. Lavelle stated that the ionization constant of water is Kw = [H3O+][OH-] = 10^-14. What exactly does ionization constant mean? Is it the same thing as equilibrium constant?
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Re: Ionization Constant
In terms of water, the ionization constant is the same as the equilibrium constant. In the breaking down of water, it creates ions H+ and OH-. So we are able to interchangeable use the words ionization constant.
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Re: Ionization Constant
Do you remember the Lewis structure diagrams Lavelle drew in class? They are depicting the formation of H3O+ and OH- ions (ionizations). The ionization constant of water refers to level at which H3O+ and OH- are equal. 10^-14 is the equilibrium constant of the chemical reaction so 10^-14 = [H3O+][OH-]. We call this "ionization constant" because we are solely referring to ions and this is the basis of which all acid and base concentrations/pH follow.
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