Chapter 18.3, Problem 37SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The significance of $k_w$ in aqueous solution is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

$k_w$ is the ionic product of water. It is the product of hydrogen ions and hydroxyl ions in the water.

The value of $k_w$ remains constant at constant temperature.

Answer to Problem 37SSC

As ionic product of water is constant, so when there is increase of concentration of hydrogen ions in aqueous solution, hydroxyl ion concentration decreases and vice-versa.

Explanation of Solution

$\begin{array}{l}{k}_w=\left[H^{+}\right]\times \left[O{H}^{-}\right]\\ \left[H^{+}\right]=\frac{k_w}{\left[O{H}^{-}\right]}\\ \left[O{H}^{-}\right]=\frac{k_w}{\left[H^{+}\right]}\end{array}$

Conclusion

Ionic product of water is significant.