Relative strength of acids and bases
![]() Everything You Need in One PlaceHomework problems? Exam preparation? Trying to grasp a concept or just brushing up the basics? Our extensive help & practice library have got you covered. | ![]() Learn and Practice With EaseOur proven video lessons ease you through problems quickly, and you get tonnes of friendly practice on questions that trip students up on tests and finals. | ![]() Instant and Unlimited HelpOur personalized learning platform enables you to instantly find the exact walkthrough to your specific type of question. Activate unlimited help now! |
Make math click 🤔 and get better grades! 💯Join for Free

Get the most by viewing this topic in your current grade. Pick your course now.
Intros
Examples
Lessons
- Find the equilibrium constant for two competing weak acids and their conjugate pairs.
Ethanoic acid, CH3COOH and carbonic acid, H2CO3 are both weak acids. Their Ka acidity constants1 are below:
Ka (CH3COOH) = 1.4*10-5
Ka (H2CO3) = 4.5*10-7 - Use the Ka expression to compare the strengths of two weak acids.
Formic acid, HCOOH, and butanoic acid, CH3CH2CH2COOH, are both weak acids. Their Ka acidity constants1 are below:
Ka (HCOOH): 1.8*10-4
Ka (CH3CH2CH2COOH): 1.5*10-5
Write a Keq expression using the two weak acids and their conjugate bases to explain which is the stronger acid.
1 Source for acidity constant (Ka) data: ATKINS, P. W., & DE PAULA, J. (2006). Atkins' Physical chemistry. Oxford, Oxford University Press.