Write balanced equations and expressions for Ksp for the dissolution of each ionic compound. c. Ag₂CrO₄

Key Concepts

Solubility Product Constant (Ksp)

The solubility product constant (Ksp) is an equilibrium constant that applies to the solubility of ionic compounds. It represents the maximum concentration of ions that can exist in a saturated solution at a given temperature. Ksp is calculated from the concentrations of the ions in solution, raised to the power of their coefficients in the balanced dissolution equation.

Dissolution of Ionic Compounds

The dissolution of ionic compounds involves the separation of the compound into its constituent ions when it is added to water. For example, when silver chromate (Ag2CrO4) dissolves, it dissociates into two silver ions (Ag+) and one chromate ion (CrO4^2-). This process is represented by a balanced chemical equation that shows the stoichiometry of the ions produced.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations is essential to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is conserved during a chemical reaction. In the context of dissolution, this means that the total number of each type of ion produced must match the number of ions in the original compound. This is crucial for accurately writing the Ksp expression, which is derived from the balanced equation.