The Acid Dissociation Constant K_a Equals 1

question 19

Multiple Choice

The acid dissociation constant K_a equals 1.26 × 10^-2 for HSO₄^- and is 5.6 × 10^-10 for NH₄. Which statement about the following equilibrium is correct? HSO_4-(aq) + NH₃(aq) SO₄^2-(aq) + NH₄⁺(aq)

• A) The reactants will be favored because ammonia is a stronger base than the sulfate anion.
• B) The products will be favored because the hydrogen sulfate ion is a stronger acid than the ammonium ion.
• C) Neither reactants nor products will be favored because all of the species are weak acids or bases.
• D) The initial concentrations of the hydrogen sulfate ion and ammonia must be known before any prediction can be made.
• E) This reaction is impossible to predict, since the strong acid and the weak base appear on the same side of the equation.

---

Definitions:

Social Proof

A psychological phenomenon where people assume the actions of others in an attempt to reflect correct behavior for a given situation.

Linguistic Style

A person’s characteristic speaking pattern.

Speaking Pattern

The distinct manner or style in which someone talks, often characterized by their choice of words, rhythm, and pace.

Anecdotes

Short, amusing, or interesting stories about a real incident or person.