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Multiple Choice
Given below are the pKa values of metal ions after binding to water. If the greater the acidity of a metal cation then the more easily the complex forms, which of the following ions would facilitate the fastest basic hydrolysis of ethyl propanoate?
A
Al3+ (pKa = 4.85)
B
Cu2+ (pKa = 7.52)
C
Fe3+ (pKa = 2.20)
D
Ni2+ (pKa = 10.60)
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1
Understand that the pKa value is a measure of the acidity of a metal ion when it is bound to water. A lower pKa value indicates a stronger acid.
Recall that a stronger acid will donate protons more readily, which can facilitate the hydrolysis reaction by providing more H+ ions.
Compare the given pKa values: Al3+ (4.85), Cu2+ (7.52), Fe3+ (2.20), and Ni2+ (10.60).
Identify that Fe3+ has the lowest pKa value among the given metal ions, indicating it is the strongest acid.
Conclude that Fe3+, being the strongest acid, will facilitate the fastest basic hydrolysis of ethyl propanoate due to its ability to donate protons more readily, enhancing the reaction rate.