Here is a way to test the validity of the statement made in conjunction with the three key ideas governing the ionization of polyprotic acids. Determine the pH of 0.100 M succinic acid in two ways: first by assuming that H₃O⁺ is produced only in the first ionization step, and then by allowing for the possibility that some H₃O⁺ is also produced in the second ionization step. Compare the results, and discuss the significance of your finding.

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H₂C₂H4O4 + H₂0 H3O+ + HC₂H4O4 Kaj = 6.2 x 10-5 HC4H4O4+H₂0 H3O+ + C₂H4O4²- Ka₂ = 2.3 x 10-6