What is n-factor?›
n-factor (also called reacting power) is the number of moles of H⁺ (for acids), OH⁻ (for bases), or total positive charge (for salts) that 1 mole of the substance provides or consumes in a reaction. It determines the equivalent weight: Eq.Wt = Molecular Weight / n-factor.
Why does HCl have n=1?›
HCl is a monoprotic acid — each HCl molecule can donate exactly 1 H⁺ ion in solution: HCl → H⁺ + Cl⁻.
Why does Na₂CO₃ have n=2?›
Na₂CO₃ dissociates into 2 Na⁺ and CO₃²⁻. The CO₃²⁻ accepts 2 H⁺ to form H₂CO₃ (which decomposes into H₂O + CO₂). Since it accepts 2 H⁺, its n-factor = 2.
Can an element have multiple n-factors?›
Yes! For example, H₃PO₃ has n=2 (not 3) because only 2 of its 3 H atoms are replaceable by a base. H₃PO₄ has n=3. The n-factor depends on the specific reaction.