Which diagram represents ionisation of a weak acid?
A - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 10 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 10
Which diagram represents ionisation of a weak acid?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which diagram represents ionisation of a weak acid?
A - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 10 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the concept of weak acid ionisation
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Answer
Ionisation of a weak acid involves the partial dissociation of the acid in water, resulting in a reversible reaction. This means not all acid molecules donate protons (H+), and an equilibrium is established between the undissociated and dissociated species.
Step 2
Analyze the diagrams for ionisation representation
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Answer
In the diagrams, the presence of dissociated ions (H extsuperscript{+} and A extsuperscript{-}) should be observed. Weak acids will show a lesser number of dissociated ions compared to strong acids.
Step 3
Select the correct diagram
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Answer
Based on the analysis, diagram D is the correct representation, as it shows a balance between dissociated ions and unionised acid, consistent with the characteristics of a weak acid.