DOMINGO, GERALD C.

CM123-A14
CCE-1

Electrolytes are categorized into two; namely the strong and weak electrolytes. Strong electrolytes
(either in the form of strong acids or strong base) ionizes completely in the solution producing
more ions in the solution. On the other hand, weak electrolytes ( weak base or weak acid) have
a partial ionization in the solution. Thus, they have the capability to perform reverse and forward
reaction, and if possible, reach an equilibrium state.
Basing on the Bronsted-Lowry concept, acids produces its conjugate base so as to base produces
its conjugate acid. Given that the acid is classified as a strong acid, its conjugate base is
theoretically considered as a weak base under ionization process, same as true with a strong
base. Meanwhile, if the acid is weak, its product is considered as a strong acid.
DOMINGO, GERALD C.
CM123-A14
CCE-1

Under the classification of the chemical equilibrium, there are some concepts that we need to
consider. Some of which is the ion-product constant for water, solubility-product constant, acid-
dissociation constant, and the buffer solution.

In determining the equilibrium with the presence of ionic solution, we must consider its ionic
strength, activity coefficient and activity to determine the molar concentration of each reactant
and product in the equilibrium state.
DOMINGO, GERALD C.
CM123-A14
CCE-1

At some cases, such as polyprotic acids and bases, multi-equilibrium do exist. Two things we
need to consider in determining the molar concentration of each reagent in the equilibrium state
is the mass balance/ material balance (which uses the principle of conservation of mass) and
charge balance (which is most applicable on ionic reagents and products).
DOMINGO, GERALD C.
CM123-A14
CCE-1