How to Calculate the pH of a Solution of Weak Acid Using ICE Table Method?

What is the process to calculate the pH of a solution of weak acid?

How can we determine the pH value of a solution of weak acid using the ICE table method?

The ICE Table Method for Calculating pH of Weak Acid Solution

When dealing with a solution of weak acid like butanoic acid, we can utilize the ICE table method to calculate the pH value. By setting up a Ka expression and using the equilibrium concentrations of the acid and its conjugate base, we can determine the hydronium ion concentration and subsequently find the pH.

In order to calculate the pH of a solution of weak acid using the ICE table method, we need to follow these steps:

1. Set up the ICE table, where I stands for Initial concentration, C for the Change that occurs, and E for the Equilibrium concentrations of the species involved.
2. Write the Ka expression for the weak acid, involving the hydronium ion concentration, the conjugate base concentration, and the weak acid concentration.
3. Assume 'x' as the amount of weak acid that ionizes and calculate the equilibrium concentrations of all species involved.
4. Set up the equilibrium expression using the given Ka value and the equilibrium concentrations.
5. Solve the resulting quadratic equation to obtain the hydronium ion concentration.
6. Calculate the pH by taking the negative logarithm of the hydronium ion concentration.

By following these steps and applying the ICE table method, we can accurately determine the pH of a solution of weak acid with the given equilibrium constants.