Weak Acids
Part of the Acids and Bases section of Coddy's Chemistry journey. Lesson 8 of 30.
A weak acid ionizes only a little: most molecules keep their proton.
CH₃COOH + H₂O ⇌ H₃O⁺ + CH₃COO⁻
⇌ means the reaction runs both ways.
In 0.1 M ethanoic acid, about 1 molecule in 100 is ionized, so [H₃O⁺] is much less than 0.1 M.
Strong and weak acids at the same concentration
Fewer ions: a weak acid conducts electricity poorly and fizzes slowly with magnesium.
Challenge
Vinegar's acid, ethanoic acid CH₃COOH, gives away a proton now and then. Write the conjugate base it leaves behind.
Try it yourself
Acids and basesWrite the conjugate base of CH3COOH
Test yourselfThis lesson includes a short quiz. Start the lesson to answer it and track your progress.