Dissociation of Water

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the dissociation of water, its properties, calculations, and solution classifications.

Dissociation of Water

The process in which water molecules split into hydronium (H3O+) and hydroxide (OH−) ions.

Amphoteric

A substance that can act as both an acid and a base; water is an example.

Conjugate acid-base pairs

Acid and base that differ by a proton; in water, H3O+ (conjugate acid) and OH− (conjugate base) are paired.

Water dissociation expression

The equation representing the equilibrium of water dissociating into H3O+ and OH−.

Ion product constant for water (Kw)

The equilibrium constant for the dissociation of water, expressed as Kw = [H3O+][OH−], equal to 1.0 x 10−14 at 25 °C.

Neutral solution

A solution where [H3O+] = [OH−], resulting in a pH of 7.

Acidic solution

A solution where [H3O+] > [OH−], indicating a pH less than 7.

Basic solution

A solution where [OH−] > [H3O+], indicating a pH greater than 7.

Equilibrium

The state in which the concentrations of reactants and products do not change over time.