Derive $K_w = K_a \times K_b$ and $pK_w = pK_a + pK_b$ for a weak base $B$ and its conjugate acid $BH^{+}$.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) For a weak base $B$,the equilibrium in aqueous solution is:
$B_{(aq)} + H_2O_{(l)} \rightleftharpoons BH^{+}_{(aq)} + OH^{-}_{(aq)} \quad \dots (i)$
The base dissociation constant $K_b$ is given by:
$K_b = \frac{[BH^{+}][OH^{-}]}{[B]}$
For the conjugate acid $BH^{+}$,the dissociation equilibrium is:
$BH^{+}_{(aq)} + H_2O_{(l)} \rightleftharpoons B_{(aq)} + H_3O^{+}_{(aq)} \quad \dots (ii)$
The acid dissociation constant $K_a$ is given by:
$K_a = \frac{[B][H_3O^{+}]}{[BH^{+}]}$
Multiplying $K_a$ and $K_b$:
$K_a \times K_b = \left( \frac{[B][H_3O^{+}]}{[BH^{+}]} \right) \times \left( \frac{[BH^{+}][OH^{-}]}{[B]} \right)$
$K_a \times K_b = [H_3O^{+}][OH^{-}] = K_w$
Taking the negative logarithm on both sides:
$-\log(K_a \times K_b) = -\log(K_w)$
$-\log K_a - \log K_b = -\log K_w$
$pK_a + pK_b = pK_w$

Explore More

Similar Questions

For the reaction $NH_4^+ + S^{2-} \rightleftharpoons NH_3 + HS^-$,identify the nature of $NH_3$ and $HS^-$ in the context of the Brønsted-Lowry theory.

Match the following acids in List-$I$ with their respective acid dissociation constants $(K_a)$ in List-$II$:
List-$I$ (Acid)List-$II$ $(K_a)$
$A$. Phenol$I$. $1 \times 10^{-13}$
$B$. Benzoic acid$II$. $3.0 \times 10^{-8}$
$C$. $HClO$$III$. $1.0 \times 10^{-10}$
$D$. $CH_3COOH$$IV$. $6.5 \times 10^{-5}$
$V$. $1.75 \times 10^{-5}$

The correct match is:

Select the set of amphiprotic species.

Heating iron sulfide produces sulfur oxide,which reacts with water to form an acid. What is the basicity of this acid?

Which of the following statements is true?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo