Chapter 16, Problem 16.58SP

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The acid between $\text{HCl and HF}$ which has the strongest conjugate base should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The conjugate acid of a base is formed when base accepts a hydrogen ion. Similarly, conjugate base is formed when an acid gives away a hydrogen ion.

For example: HCl is an acid, after releasing 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{Cl}}^{-}$ ion is formed which is conjugate base of HCl.

Similarly, ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$ is a base, after accepting 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{NH}}_4^{+}$ ion is formed which is conjugate acid of ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The acid between ${\text{HF and NH}}_4^{+}$ which has the strongest conjugate base should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The conjugate acid of a base is formed when the base accepts a hydrogen ion. Similarly, the conjugate base is formed when an acid gives away a hydrogen ion.

For example: HCl is an acid, after releasing 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{Cl}}^{-}$ ion is formed which is the conjugate base of HCl.

Similarly, ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$ is a base, after accepting 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{NH}}_4^{+}$ ion is formed which is the conjugate acid of ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The acid between ${\text{HCN and HSO}}_4^{-}$ which has the strongest conjugate base should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The conjugate acid of a base is formed when base accepts a hydrogen ion. Similarly, conjugate base is formed when an acid gives away a hydrogen ion.

For example: HCl is an acid, after releasing 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{Cl}}^{-}$ ion is formed which is conjugate base of HCl.

Similarly, ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$ is a base, after accepting 1 hydrogen ion, ${\text{NH}}_4^{+}$ ion is formed which is conjugate acid of ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$.