Chapter 14, Problem 14.41AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The three carboxylic acids are to be arranged in order of their increasing acidity. An explanation regarding the arrangement is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The $p{\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ value of an acid is the negative logarithm of ${\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ (acid dissociation constant). It indicates the acidity of a compound. The increase in acidity of a compound results in decreased $p{\text{K}}_{\text{a}}$ value.