Pk_a prediction using group philicity

Abstract

Acid-base dissociation constants (pK_a values) are important in understanding the chemical, environmental and toxicological properties of molecules. Though various methods have been developed to predict pK_a by experimental and theoretical models, prediction of pK_a is still complicated. Hence, a new approach for predicting pK_a 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 pK_a. The power of this descriptor in describing pK_a 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 pK_a values.