Strategy for Solving Acid-Base Problems A Summary

The fact that the solution contains 1.0 X 10-7 M HN03 means that [NO3-] = 1.0 X 10 7 M. Inserting this value, we can solve the above equation to give [H+] = 1.6 X 10 7 M. 

This approach applies for any strong acid (although it is unnecessary for more typical concentrations). It can also be adapted to calculate the pH of a very dilute strong base solution. (Try your hand at this problem by calculating the pH of a 5.0 X 10-s M KOH solution.) 

Strategy for Solving Acid-Base Problems A Summary  

In this chapter we have encountered many different situations involving aqueous solutions of acids and bases, and in the next chapter we will encounter still more. In solving for the equilibrium concentrations in these aqueous solutions, you may be tempted to create a pigeonhole for each possible situation and to memorize the procedures necessary to deal with each particular situation. This approach is just not practical and usually leads to frustration Too many pigeonholes are required, because there seems to be an infinite number of cases. But you can handle any case successfully by taking a systematic, patient, and thoughtful approach. When analyzing an acid-base equilibrium problem, do not ask yourself how a memorized solution can be used to solve the problem. Instead, ask yourself this question What are the major species in the solution, and how does each behave chemically  

The most important part of doing a complicated acid-base equilibrium problem is the analysis you do at the beginning of a problem  

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