Final answer:
To determine the pH at the equivalence point of a titration of acetic acid with sodium hydroxide, you must write the equilibrium expression, construct a BCA table, create an ICE table, and then calculate the pH, which corresponds to option (d) of the given choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Determining the pH at the Equivalence Point in a Titration
To determine the pH at the equivalence point of a titration between acetic acid and sodium hydroxide, the following sequence of steps should be followed:
- Write the equilibrium constant expression for the ionization of acetic acid.
- Construct a BCA table to determine the initial amounts and the changes during titration.
- Construct an ICE table to calculate the changes in concentration of the reactants and products at equilibrium.
- Use the values obtained to calculate the concentration of the hydronium ion [H+] and determine the pH of the solution.
The correct sequence in this context would be: Write the equilibrium constant expression, Construct a BCA table, Construct an ICE table, and Use this information to determine the pH. This corresponds to the option (d).
Upon reaching the equivalence point, acetic acid has been completely neutralized by sodium hydroxide, resulting in the formation of water and the acetate ion, the conjugate base of acetic acid. The solution's pH is then controlled by the ionization of the acetate ion in water.