Question

What is the value of the ionization constant \( K_a \) for acetic acid (\( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \)) if the concentration of acetic acid is 0.1 M and the concentration of \( \text{H}^+ \) ions at equilibrium is 1.0 x \( 10^{-3} \) M?

• A. \( 1 \times 10^{-5} \)
• B. \( 1 \times 10^{-4} \)
• C. \( 1 \times 10^{-3} \)
• D. \( 1 \times 10^{-6} \)

Hint:

The ionization constant \( K_a \) represents the strength of an acid in solution. A larger \( K_a \) indicates a stronger acid.