Question

194. Acetic acid is a weak acid and ammonia is a weak base. Discuss the term ‘weak’.

Answer 1

• The term weak means, the molecule dissociates into ions but does not undergo complete dissociation.
• An acid that partially dissociates into ions is termed a weak acid.
• A base that undergoes partial ionization in solution, is termed a weak base.
• Acetic acid undergoes partial dissociation and forms H⁺ ions into an aqueous solution, therefore it is considered a weak acid.
• Ammonia undergoes partial dissociation and forms hydroxide ions into an aqueous solution, therefore it is considered a weak base.