Reaction

K_eq

HA is strong

Extent of Reaction

HA is weak

Extent of Reaction

Acid dissociation: HA + H₂O ® H₃O⁺ + A-

K_a(HA)

K_eq >> 1

complete

K_eq <<1

very little

Reverse of acid dissociation: H₃O⁺ + A- ® HA +H₂O

1/K_a(HA)

K_eq << 1

very little

K_eq >> 1

complete

Base hydrolysis: A- + H₂O ® HA + OH-

K_w/K_a(HA)(K_b)

K_eq << 1

very little

K_eq << 1

very little

Reverse of base hydrolysis: HA + OH- ® H₂O + A-

K_a/K_w (1/K_b)

K_eq >> 1

complete

K_eq >> 1

complete

Water Autoionization: H₂O + H₂O ® H₃O⁺ OH-

K_w = 1 x 10^-14

very little

General Acid + General Base: HA + B- ® BH + A-

K_a(HA)/K_a(HB)

K_eq >> 1 if HA stronger than HB

complete

K_eq << 1 if HA weaker than HB

very little