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? asked in Science & MathematicsBiology · 1 decade ago

Keq, Kw, Kd, Ka, pKa?

Can you please tell me what these values would represent please?

I am in university level Biochemistry so I don't just want the jist, I want what it is.

Thanks

3 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    They are all equilibrium constants. Equilibrium constants are ratios between the ions and molecules in solutions. Salts, strong acids and bases dissolve completely to form ions. Weak acids and bases form very few ions and most of the compound remains a neutral molecule. A weak acid might form ions as follows:

    HA -> H(+) + A(-)

    The equilibrium constant is

    Keq = {H(+)][A(-)]/[HA}

    All concentrations are exprerssed in moles/liter. Equilibrium constants become important when calculating the pH of weak acids and bases. If M is the molarity of the solution, the Keq becomes:

    Keq = X^2/(M - X)

    X is the concentrration of either H(+) or A(-). The pH is calculated from the concentration of the hydrogen ions.

    Source(s): I'm a chemist!
  • 1 decade ago

    keq=constant at equilibrium

    kw=constant for water

    kd=constant for dissociation

    ka=constant for acid

    pKa=constant pressure

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    What are you asking?

    Source(s): Me
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