What is the difference between pH and pKa?

pH is the measure of the concentration of proton in an aqueous environment, which is denoted as: pH = -log[H3O+]. pKa however, is prefered when comparing how strong an acid is because it's the pH at which the concentration of the acid and the conjugate base is equal in concentration, which is denoted as: pKa = -log10Kwhere Ka is the acid dissociation constant: K= [H3O+][A-] / [HA]. 

AM
Answered by Anthony M. Chemistry tutor

9126 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a formula of Potassium Sulfate?


The standard enthalpy of formation of glucose is -1273.3kJ/mol, and for carbon dioxide it is -393.5kJ/mol, and for water -285.8 kJ/mol. What is the standard enthalpy of combustion of glucose, C6H12O6?


Why does the pH of neutral water drop when it is left out in an uncovered container on a worktop for a long period of time?


What is bond polarity and why does it exist?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning