What is the definition of a weak acid?

Question:

What is the definition of a weak acid?

Examples of Weak Acids:

Common examples of weak acids include:

  • Carbonic acid ({eq}\rm H_2CO_3 {/eq}), which is found in rainwater and explains why rain is naturally acidic.
  • Ethanoic acid ({eq}\rm CH_3COOH {/eq}), which is found in vinegar.
  • Phosphoric acid ({eq}\rm H_3PO_4 {/eq}), which is found in sodas.

Answer and Explanation: 1

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The definition of a weak acid is an acid that ionizes to a low extent and therefore has a low acid ionization constant ({eq}\rm K_a {/eq}) or high...

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Weak Acids: Properties & Examples

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Chapter 28 / Lesson 13
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Learn the definition of weak acids, study common examples, discover the difference between strong and weak acids, and understand how to write weak acid equilibrium equations.


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