A stepwise method enables students to predict which acid-base reactions occur when two solutions are mixed. The complexities of equilibrium are avoided by treating reactions as all-or-none and by providing a table of acids in order of strength. Key steps, in order, are: list major species; classify them as acids and bases; identify the strongest acid and base; decide whether these two can react. If they do react, repeat these steps with the species that remain after reaction. Qualitative and quantitative examples are provided, as are simple rules for recognizing acids and bases from formulas. Advantages of the method and ways of adapting it to other types of reactions are described.
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Citation
Carlton, Terry S. J. Chem. Educ.1997 74 939.
Keywords
Introductory/High School Chemistry, Teaching/Learning Theory/Practice, Acid-Base Chemistry, Aqueous Solution Chemistry
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