Initial Concentration Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the initial concentration of a weak base solution given its dissociation constant (Kb) and degree of dissociation (α).
Purpose: It helps chemists and students understand the relationship between these important chemical equilibrium parameters.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates the initial concentration of a weak base to its dissociation characteristics at equilibrium.
Details: Knowing the initial concentration helps in preparing solutions with desired properties and predicting their behavior in chemical reactions.
Tips: Enter the dissociation constant (Kb) and degree of dissociation (α between 0 and 1). Both values must be positive, with α ≤ 1.
Q1: What is the degree of dissociation?
A: It's the fraction of original solute molecules that dissociate into ions in solution (ranges from 0 to 1).
Q2: What are typical Kb values for weak bases?
A: Weak bases typically have Kb values between 10⁻² and 10⁻¹⁰. Ammonia (NH₃) has Kb ≈ 1.8 × 10⁻⁵.
Q3: Why does the formula have (1 - α) in numerator?
A: This represents the fraction of undissociated base molecules at equilibrium.
Q4: What if my degree of dissociation is very small?
A: For α < 0.05, the approximation C0 ≈ Kb/α² is often used.
Q5: Can I use this for strong bases?
A: No, this formula only applies to weak bases that don't completely dissociate.