[vnveteran]

write an equation for the reaction between acetic  acid, pKa=4.7, and potassium cyanide. Also determine in which direction the equilibrium lie.

ok this is what i have.

CH3COOH + KCN <==> CH3COO- + KCNH               im not sure if this is correct.please correct me if im wrong.

i think equilibrium lies to the right because CH3COO- is a weak base.


 

[lancenti]

Few things to think about:

The Potassium Ion is a spectator ion, so it doesn't affect the overall equation. The counterion, however, is not a spectator ion.

You may also need to consider the pKb of CN^-, if you're not sure about the base strength of cyanide.