Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Equilibria

Equilibria — practice question

When ammonium chloride, $\text{NH}_4\text{Cl}(s)$, is placed in water, it produces an acidic solution because the ammonium ions dissociate. $\text{NH}_4^+(aq) \rightleftharpoons \text{H}^+(aq) + \text{NH}_3(aq)$
(a(i))[1]

The ammonium ion behaves as a weak acid. Under standard conditions, a $0.300\ \text{mol dm}^{-3}$ ammonium chloride solution has pH $4.89$. Calculate the $[\text{H}^+]$ in a $0.300\ \text{mol dm}^{-3}$ ammonium chloride solution.

(a(ii))[2]

Calculate the value of $pK_a$ for the ammonium ion.

(b(i))[1]

A buffer solution may be prepared by combining ammonium chloride and ammonia solution. Explain, using an equation, how this mixture can act as a buffer when a small quantity of strong acid is added.

(b(ii))[1]

Explain, using an equation, how this mixture can act as a buffer when a small amount of strong base is added.

(c(i))[1]

Use $K_w$ to find $[\text{H}^+]$ in pure water at standard conditions. Show all working.

(c(ii))[2]

At $50\ ^\circ\text{C}$, the pH of pure water is $6.64$. Calculate the numerical value of $K_w$ at $50\ ^\circ\text{C}$.

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