The pH of very dilute solutions of weak acids – a calculation involving the application of numerical skills to the solution of a cubic equation
International e-Journal of Science, Medicine and Education
;
: 24-29, 2014.
Article
in English
| WPRIM
| ID: wpr-629373
ABSTRACT
This paper presents the solution to a calculation of the pH of a very dilute solution of a weak acid, taking into account the effect of the hydroxonium ions generated from the ionization of the acid on the ionization of water, also a very weak acid. To be solved successfully, this calculation involves the concepts of conservation of charge, pH, equilibria and the application of the general solution to a cubic equation. Such an exercise requires the application of skills in algebra, and can provide a core of understanding that can prepare advanced students for many different sorts of calculations that represent real-life problems in the chemical sciences. A programme is presented in C++ which enables the work of students to be individualized so that each student in a class can work through a slightly different pH calculation, in such a way that a class supervisor can quickly check each student’s result for accuracy. This exercise is presented as a potential means of enabling students to undertake and master similar types of calculations involving the application of complex algebra to problems related to equilibria and solution dynamics.
Full text:
Available
Index:
WPRIM (Western Pacific)
Language:
English
Journal:
International e-Journal of Science, Medicine and Education
Year:
2014
Type:
Article
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