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Topic 17: Acid-Base Equilibria

6 dot points across 6 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do we measure and control the acidity of a solution?

The Bronsted-Lowry theory, the pH scale, strong and weak acids, Ka and Kw, titration curves, indicator choice and the action of buffer solutions.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 17 answer covering the Bronsted-Lowry theory, the pH scale, strong and weak acids, Ka and Kw, titration curves, indicators and buffers.
10 min answer →

How do we calculate equilibrium constants and use them quantitatively?

The equilibrium constants Kc and Kp, calculating them from equilibrium amounts and partial pressures, mole fractions, and the effect of changing conditions on their values.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 16 answer covering the equilibrium constants Kc and Kp, mole fractions and partial pressures, calculating equilibrium constants, and the effect of conditions on their values.
9 min answer →

How do we turn observations about rate into a mathematical rate equation?

Rate equations and orders of reaction, the rate constant, finding orders from initial-rate and concentration-time data, the rate-determining step, and the Arrhenius equation.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 15 answer covering rate equations and orders, the rate constant, finding orders from rate data, the rate-determining step, and the Arrhenius equation.
10 min answer →

How can we predict and quantify the direction of electron transfer?

Standard electrode potentials, the standard hydrogen electrode, electrochemical cells and cell EMF, using electrode potentials to predict feasibility, and redox titrations.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 13 answer covering standard electrode potentials, the standard hydrogen electrode, cell EMF, predicting feasibility from electrode potentials, and redox titrations.
9 min answer →

Why do some reactions happen spontaneously while others do not?

Born-Haber cycles and lattice energy, enthalpies of solution, hydration and atomisation, entropy, and Gibbs free energy as the criterion for feasibility.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 12 answer covering Born-Haber cycles and lattice energy, enthalpies of solution and hydration, entropy, and Gibbs free energy as the test of feasibility.
10 min answer →

What gives the d-block elements their characteristic chemistry?

The properties of transition metals, variable oxidation states, complex ions and ligands, the origin of colour, catalysis, and ligand substitution reactions.
An Edexcel 9CH0 Topic 14 answer covering transition metal properties, variable oxidation states, complex ions and ligands, the origin of colour, catalysis and ligand substitution.
10 min answer →