Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Kb value is the equilibrium constant for the reaction between a base and water to produce hydroxide ions (OH-) and its conjugate acid. It quantifies the strength or weakness of a base in aqueous solutions.
Related terms
Kw value: The ion product constant for water, Kw, relates to both acids and bases in aqueous solutions by measuring their ability to donate or accept protons.
Strong base: A base that completely dissociates into hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.
Weak base: A base that only partially dissociates into hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.