pKa Prediction Using Group Philicity

Abstract

Acid−base dissociation constants (pKa values) are important in understanding the chemical, environmental and toxicological properties of molecules. Though various methods have been developed to predict pKa by experimental and theoretical models, prediction of pKa is still complicated. Hence, a new approach for predicting pKa using the group philicity concept has been attempted. Presence of known functional groups in a molecule is utilized as the most important indicator to predict pKa. The power of this descriptor in describing pKa for the series of carboxylic acids, various substituted phenols, anilines, phosphoric acids, and alcohols is probed. Results reveal that the group electrophilicity is suitable for effectively predicting the pKa values.