A 0.020 M aqueous solution of potassium fluoride (KF) at 25 °C has a measured pH of 8.20

CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Acids and Bases · Acids and Bases

Problem

A 0.020 M aqueous solution of potassium fluoride (KF) at 25 °C has a measured pH of 8.20. Assume ideal behavior and Kw=1.0×10−14K_w=1.0\times10^{-14}. (1) Calculate [OH−][OH^-] in the solution and determine KbK_b for F−^-. Show all steps. (2) From your result in part (a), calculate pKapK_a for HF. (3) HF is a much weaker acid than HCl (pKa≈−7pK_a\approx-7). Using your calculated pKapK_a value and structural arguments, explain this difference in acidity. (4) Predict qualitatively whether HI would be a stronger or weaker acid than HF and provide two structural or energetic reasons for your prediction.

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