The first ionization constant K_a1 is always smaller than the second ionization constant K_a2 for the ionization of a diprotic acid.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a diprotic acid, the first ionization constant Ka1 is typically larger than the second ionization constant Ka2 because it is generally easier to remove the first proton from a neutral molecule than to remove the second proton from an already negatively charged ion.

The First Ionization Constant Ka1 Is Always Smaller Than the Second

The First Ionization Constant K_a1 Is Always Smaller Than the Second