What is nitrous acid ka?

Nitrous Acid (HNO₂) Ka

Nitrous acid (HNO₂) is a weak acid. Its acid dissociation constant, or Ka, is a measure of its strength in aqueous solution.

  • Ka Value: The Ka of nitrous acid is approximately 4.5 x 10⁻⁴ at 25°C. This value indicates that it only partially dissociates in water, thus classifying it as a weak acid. A higher Ka value indicates a stronger acid. You can learn more about the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/acid%20dissociation%20constant">acid dissociation constant</a> here.

  • Equilibrium: The dissociation of nitrous acid in water can be represented by the following equilibrium: HNO₂ (aq) + H₂O (l) ⇌ H₃O⁺ (aq) + NO₂⁻ (aq)

  • Weak Acid Behavior: Because of its relatively low Ka, nitrous acid solutions contain a significant amount of undissociated HNO₂ along with its conjugate base, nitrite (NO₂⁻), and hydronium ions (H₃O⁺). Information about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/conjugate%20base">conjugate base</a> can be found here.

  • Temperature Dependence: The Ka value, like other equilibrium constants, is temperature-dependent. The value given above is generally accepted for room temperature (25°C). Learn about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/equilibrium%20constants">equilibrium constants</a> here.

  • Applications: Nitrous acid is used in various chemical reactions, particularly in the synthesis of diazonium salts from amines. It also plays a role in the formation of nitrosamines. Learn more about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/chemical%20reactions">chemical reactions</a>.