Ka, Kb, and Kw

• HA(aq) + H2O(l) ? H3O+(aq) + A-(aq) Ka

• A-(aq) + H2O(l) ? HA(aq) + OH-(aq) Kb

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• 2 H2O (l) ? H3O+(aq) + OH-(aq) Kw

• What is the relationship between these three equilibrium constants?

  • Kw = Ka x Kb

• What is Kb for acetate if Ka for acetic acid is 1.8 x 10-5?

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