Question

± Determining the pH of a Weak Base and the Percent Ionization of a Weak Acid

Unlike strong acids and bases that ionize completely in solution, weak acids or bases partially ionize. The tendency of a weak acid or base to ionize can be quantified in several ways including

Ka or Kb,

pKa or pKb,

and percent ionization*.

*This assumes that species of equal concentrations are being compared as percent ionization is affected by concentration.

Part A

Pyridine is a weak base that is used in the manufacture of pesticides and plastic resins. It is also a component of cigarette smoke. Pyridine ionizes in water as follows:

C5H5N+H2O⇌C5H5NH++OH−

The pKb of pyridine is 8.75. What is the pH of a 0.275 M solution of pyridine? (Assume that the temperature is 25 ∘C.)

Express the pH numerically to two decimal places.

Part B

Benzoic acid is a weak acid that has antimicrobial properties. Its sodium salt, sodium benzoate, is a preservative found in foods, medications, and personal hygiene products. Benzoic acid ionizes in water:

C6H5COOH⇌C6H5COO−+H+

The pKa of this reaction is 4.2. In a 0.66 M solution of benzoic acid, what percentage of the molecules are ionized?

Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.

Answer 1