1. What is Ionic Product of Water?

Definition: The ionic product of water (K_w) is the mathematical product of the concentration of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions in water.

Purpose: This calculator determines K_w based on the base ionization constant (K_b) and hydrolysis constant (K_h) of a weak base.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( K_w \) — Ionic product of water
• \( K_b \) — Base ionization constant
• \( K_h \) — Hydrolysis constant

Explanation: The product of the base ionization constant and hydrolysis constant gives the ionic product of water at a given temperature.

3. Importance of Ionic Product of Water

Details: K_w is fundamental in acid-base chemistry, determining pH and pOH of aqueous solutions. At 25°C, K_w = 1.0 × 10^-14.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the base ionization constant (K_b) and hydrolysis constant (K_h). Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical values for K_b and K_h?
A: For weak bases, K_b typically ranges from 10^-2 to 10^-12, while K_h is usually very small (10^-10 or less).

Q2: How does temperature affect K_w?
A: K_w increases with temperature as the dissociation of water is endothermic.

Q3: What's the relationship between K_w, K_a, and K_b?
A: For conjugate acid-base pairs: K_w = K_a × K_b.

Q4: Why is K_w important in pH calculations?
A: K_w relates [H⁺] and [OH^-] in all aqueous solutions: [H⁺][OH^-] = K_w.

Q5: How precise should my input values be?
A: Use scientific notation for very small values (e.g., 1.77×10^-5). The calculator accepts values as small as 10^-15.