The $\mathrm{p} K_a$ values of four carboxylic acids are given below. Identify the weakest carboxylic acid.
The $\mathrm{p} K_a$ values of four carboxylic acids are given below. Identify the weakest carboxylic acid.
$4.89$
$1.28$
$4.76$
$2.56$
Solution
The more the value of $\mathrm{p} K_{\mathrm{a}}$, compound will be less acidic indicating the less value of $K_a$ and smaller the value of $\mathrm{pK} K_a$, the compound will be more acidic, i.e., there will be more the value of $K_a$.