Final answer:
The equation for HPO42- as a weak acid is HPO42-(aq) + H2O(l) → H3O+(aq) + PO43-(aq), and its acid dissociation constant (Ka) is given by Ka = [H3O+][PO43-] / [HPO42-], with a known value of 4.2 × 10-13.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acidic equilibrium equation for HPO42- acting as a weak acid in water is written as follows:
HPO42-(aq) + H2O(l) → H3O+(aq) + PO43-(aq)
The acid dissociation constant (Ka) expression for this reaction, where HPO42- donates a proton (H+) to form the conjugate base PO43- and hydronium ion H3O+, is represented as:
Ka = [H3O+][PO43-] / [HPO42-]
The value of Ka for this reaction, known as the second ionization constant of phosphoric acid (H3PO4), is typically much smaller than the first ionization constant, indicating a weaker degree of ionization in this step. The given value for Ka is 4.2 × 10-13, which helps in calculating equilibrium concentrations in a solution of H3PO4.