Ionic Strength Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator computes the ionic strength of a solution containing bi-trivalent electrolytes where cation and anion molalities are equal.
Purpose: It helps chemists and researchers determine the ionic strength of solutions containing ions with +2 and -3 charges (like Ca²⁺ and PO₄³⁻).
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: For bi-trivalent electrolytes (2-3 salts), the ionic strength is 15 times the molality when cation and anion molalities are equal.
Details: Ionic strength affects solution properties like activity coefficients, solubility, and reaction rates. It's crucial in electrochemistry and solution chemistry.
Tips: Enter the molality of both cation and anion in mol/kg. The value must be > 0.
Q1: Why is the factor 15 specifically for bi-trivalent electrolytes?
A: The factor comes from the formula I = ½Σcᵢzᵢ². For 2-3 salts with equal molality, this simplifies to 15 × m.
Q2: What's a typical molality range for this calculator?
A: This works for any molality, but most solutions range from 0.001 to 1 mol/kg for practical applications.
Q3: Does this work for other electrolyte types?
A: No, this specific formula only applies to bi-trivalent electrolytes with equal cation and anion molalities.
Q4: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Temperature doesn't directly affect ionic strength calculation, but it may influence the actual molality measurement.
Q5: What are examples of bi-trivalent electrolytes?
A: Common examples include calcium phosphate (Ca₃(PO₄)₂) and magnesium arsenate (Mg₃(AsO₄)₂).