Ostwald's Dilution Law (for Weak Electrolytes)
Formula: K = c α² or α = √((K)/(c)). Where K is the ionization constant ( K_a or K_b ), c is the initial concentration of the weak electrolyte, and α is the degree of ionization. Applicable conditions: Monoprotic weak acid or base, c/K ≥ 400 (i.e., α < 5% ), constant temperature. Description: This formula describes the relationship between concentration, degree of ionization, and ionization constant for a weak electrolyte. Upon dilution, concentration c decreases, degree of ionization α increases, but K remains constant.
Syllabus path: Chemical Theories and Laws › Electrolyte Solution Theory
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CSCA Chemistry Formula Reference
Formula and explanation
Formula: K = c α² or α = √((K)/(c)). Where K is the ionization constant ( K_a or K_b ), c is the initial concentration of the weak electrolyte, and α is the degree of ionization. Applicable conditions: Monoprotic weak acid or base, c/K ≥ 400 (i.e., α < 5% ), constant temperature. Description: This formula describes the relationship between concentration, degree of ionization, and ionization constant for a weak electrolyte. Upon dilution, concentration c decreases, degree of ionization α increases, but K remains constant.
Related tutorial and examples
Electrolyte Solution Theory
Electrolyte Solution Theory Core Concepts and Learning Objectives This section focuses on chemical reactions in aqueous solutions, centering on the behavior of ions (Ionization, Hydrolysis, Precipitation). This is a high-frequency topic for calculation questions (pH, Ksp) and log…
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