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Definition: The ionic product of water (Kw) is the mathematical product of the concentration of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions in water or aqueous solutions.
Purpose: This calculator determines Kw from the acid ionization constant (Ka) and hydrolysis constant (Kh) of a weak acid.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The relationship shows how the self-ionization of water connects with acid-base equilibrium constants.
Details: Kw is fundamental in determining pH and understanding acid-base chemistry in aqueous solutions.
Tips: Enter the acid ionization constant (Ka) and hydrolysis constant (Kh). Both values must be > 0.
Q1: What is the typical value of Kw at 25°C?
A: At standard conditions, Kw is approximately 1.0 × 10-14.
Q2: How does temperature affect Kw?
A: Kw increases with temperature as the autoionization of water is endothermic.
Q3: What are typical units for Ka and Kh?
A: Both constants are typically unitless as they represent equilibrium constants.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for strong acids?
A: No, this relationship specifically applies to weak acids and their conjugate bases.
Q5: How is Kh related to Kb?
A: Kh = Kw/Ka = Kb for the conjugate base.