Final answer:
To calculate the pH change when 0.170 M citrate is added to a 0.270 M solution of citric acid, we can use the acid dissociation equilibrium of citric acid. By considering the Ka value and the concentration of H+ ions, we can calculate the pH change using the formula [H+] = [H+] initial + [Citrate-] added.
Step-by-step explanation:
pH Change Calculation:
Citric acid is a weak acid and when it dissolves in water, it releases H+ ions, contributing to the acidic pH of the solution. The pH of a solution is determined by the concentration of H+ ions.
To calculate the pH change when 0.170 M citrate is added to a 0.270 M solution of citric acid, we need to consider the acid dissociation equilibrium of citric acid:
Citric Acid <--> H+ + Citrate-
The Ka of citric acid is given as 4.77. From the Ka expression, we can calculate the concentration of H+ ions:
Ka = [H+][Citrate-] / [Citric Acid]
Since the volume of the solution does not change, the number of moles of citrate added will equal the number of moles of H+ ions produced. Therefore, the final concentration of H+ ions will be:
[H+] = [H+] initial + [Citrate-] added
Substituting the values, we can calculate the pH change.