The ionic product of water () will strictly change if which of the following actions are taken? — Ionic Equilibrium Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

$K_w$ is an equilibrium constant, and like all true equilibrium constants, it depends solely on the temperature. Increasing or decreasing the temperature will change its value (since auto-ionization is endothermic). Adding an acid or a base changes $[H^+]$ and $[OH^-]$ via the common ion effect, but their product ($K_w$) remains absolutely constant at a fixed temperature.