What simplifying assumptions do we usually make in working problems involving the ionization of a polyprotic acids? Why are they usually valid? Under what conditions do they fail? Answer by selecting all true statements. Nearly all of the \( \mathrm{H}^{+} \)comes from the first ionization. Nearly all of the \( \mathrm{H}^{+} \)comes from the second ionization. If the first two ionization constants are not very different, the approximations fail. If the first two ionization constants are not very different, the approximations are valid. The concentration of \( \mathrm{H}^{+} \)and the conjugate base of the polyprotic acid are approximately equal. The approximations are usually valid because the first ionization constant for the polyprotic acid is usually much larger than the second ionization constant. The approximations are usually valid because the first ionization constant for the polyprotic acid is usually smaller than the second ionization constant.
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In the realm of polyprotic acids, we often assume that nearly all of the \( \mathrm{H}^{+} \) ions come from the first ionization. This is because the first ionization constant (\( K_{a1} \)) is typically much larger than the subsequent ionization constants, making it a dominant source of protons in solution. This assumption holds true in many cases, especially when the acid is relatively strong. However, if the first two ionization constants (\( K_{a1} \) and \( K_{a2} \)) are not very different, those simplifying assumptions can indeed fail. This is particularly relevant in scenarios involving weak acids or those that are closely matched in strength, as both ionizations could significantly contribute to the concentration of \( \mathrm{H}^{+} \) ions, leading to more complex equilibria than initially presumed.