Base ionization
Definition
Base ionization is the process in which a base accepts protons from water molecules, producing hydroxide ions ($OH^-$) and the conjugate acid of the base. This reaction occurs in aqueous solutions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Bases ionize in water to produce hydroxide ions ($OH^-$).
- The strength of a base is determined by its ability to ionize completely or partially.
- Strong bases like $NaOH$ ionize almost completely in water, while weak bases like $NH_3$ ionize only partially.
- The equilibrium constant for base ionization is called the base dissociation constant ($K_b$).
- In Brønsted-Lowry theory, a base is defined as a proton acceptor.
Review Questions
- What ions are produced when a base ionizes in water?
- How does the strength of a base relate to its degree of ionization?
- What is the term used for the equilibrium constant of base ionization?
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Related terms
Conjugate Acid: The species formed when a base gains a proton.
$K_b$ (Base Dissociation Constant): A measure of the extent to which a base ionizes in solution.
$OH^-$ (Hydroxide Ion): An anion produced when bases dissolve in water.
