Question

The table below provides percent ionization values to indicate the extent that 0.1M solutions of certain weak acids ionize in water according to the generic equation, HA + H2O 2-way arrow H3O+ + A−. How are percent ionization values similar to equilibrium constant values? Explain your reasoning and identify which weak acid would have the smallest equilibrium constant.


Weak Acid

Percent Ionization


HNO2

6.2%


HClO2

28.2%


HCN

0.007%