Chapter 16, Problem 89QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for the dependency of the strength of an oxoacid on electronegativity and oxidation number is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The ability of an acid to ionize indicates the strength of the acid.

The strength of an oxoacid depends on the polarity of the $\text{O}-\text{H}$ bond. The polarity is primarily dependent on the electronegativity of the central atom present in the oxoacid. More electronegative the central atom, more is its acidic strength.

The oxidation number of the central atom present in the oxoacid also decides the strength of it, if the central atom is same for the oxoacids. Higher the oxidation number, more is the acidic strength of that oxoacid.