Chemistry: Molecular Approach (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134112830
ISBN 13: 978-0-13411-283-1

Chapter 16 - Exercises - Page 771: 25

Answer

For most polyprotic acids, the $K_a$ for the first ionization is much larger than the same for the second ionization or even a third one if it is possible. Therefore, the amount of $H_3O^+$ produced by the second and third ionization is much smaller than the same produced by the first one. In addition to that, the formation of $H_3O^+$ by the first ionization shifts the equilibrium to the left (Le Chatelier's principle), reducing even more the other ionizations, and making them even more negligible.

Work Step by Step

For most polyprotic acids, the $K_a$ for the first ionization is much larger than the same for the second ionization or even a third one if it is possible. Therefore, the amount of $H_3O^+$ produced by the second and third ionization is much smaller than the same produced by the first one. In addition to that, the formation of $H_3O^+$ by the first ionization shifts the equilibrium to the left (Le Chatelier's principle), reducing even more the other ionizations, and making them even more negligible.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.