Question

The generic metal A forms an insoluble salt AB(s) and a complex AC5(aq). The equilibrium concentrations in a solution of AC5 were found to be [A] = 0.100 M, [C] = 0.0160 M, and [AC5] = 0.100 M. Determine the formation constant, Kf, of AC5.

Answer 1

To solve this problem, we must remember that the Kf is simply the ratio of the concentration of the products over the reactants. The balanced equation is:

A + 5 C --> AC5

Therefore Kf is:

Kf = [AC5] / [A] [C]^5

Kf = 0.100 / [0.100 * 0.0160^5]

Kf = 953,674,316.4 = 9.5 x 10^8