Systematic Approach to Solving Equilibrium Problems

As its name implies, a systematic approach involves a series of steps  

Write all relevant equilibrium reactions and their equilibrium constant expressions. 

Count the number of species whose concentrations appear in the equilibrium constant expressions these are your unknowns. If the number of unknowns equals the number of equilibrium constant expressions, then you have enough information to solve the problem. If not, additional equations based on the conservation of mass and charge must be written. Continue to add equations until you have the same number of equations as you have unknowns. 

Decide how accurate your final answer needs to be. This decision will influence your evaluation of any assumptions you use to simplify the problem. 

Combine your equations to solve for one unknown (usually the one you are most interested in knowing). Whenever possible, simplify the algebra by making appropriate assumptions. 

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Besides equilibrium constant equations, two other types of equations are used in the systematic approach to solving equilibrium problems. The first of these is a mass balance equation, which is simply a statement of the conservation of matter. In a solution of a monoprotic weak acid, for example, the combined concentrations of the conjugate weak acid, HA, and the conjugate weak base, A , must equal the weak acid s initial concentration, Cha- ... 

The solubility of a precipitate can be improved by adding a ligand capable of forming a soluble complex with one of the precipitate s ions. For example, the solubility of Agl increases in the presence of NH3 due to the formation of the soluble Ag(NH3)2°" complex. As a final illustration of the systematic approach to solving equilibrium problems, let us find the solubility of Agl in 0.10 M NH3. 

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