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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds would produce the greatest concentration of hydrogen ions when dissolved?
A
HNO2
B
HBrO
C
H3PO4
D
H2SO3
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the type of acid each compound represents. HNO2 is nitrous acid, HBrO is hypobromous acid, H3PO4 is phosphoric acid, and H2SO3 is sulfurous acid.
Understand the concept of acid strength and dissociation. Strong acids dissociate completely in water, producing more hydrogen ions, while weak acids do not.
Consider the number of hydrogen ions each acid can potentially release. H3PO4 can release three hydrogen ions, while HNO2, HBrO, and H2SO3 can release fewer.
Evaluate the dissociation tendency of each acid. Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) is a polyprotic acid, meaning it can release multiple hydrogen ions through successive dissociation steps.
Conclude that H3PO4, being a polyprotic acid with the ability to release three hydrogen ions, will produce the greatest concentration of hydrogen ions when dissolved compared to the other acids listed.