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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules could potentially pair with a base in an acid-base reaction?
A
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
B
Ethylene (C2H4)
C
Methane (CH4)
D
Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the nature of each molecule: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Ethylene (C2H4), Methane (CH4), and Hydrochloric acid (HCl). Determine if they are acids, bases, or neither.
Recall the definition of an acid and a base according to the Brønsted-Lowry theory: An acid is a proton donor, and a base is a proton acceptor.
Analyze Carbon dioxide (CO2): It is a linear molecule with a central carbon atom double-bonded to two oxygen atoms. It is not typically considered an acid or a base in the Brønsted-Lowry sense.
Analyze Ethylene (C2H4): It is a hydrocarbon with a double bond between two carbon atoms. It is non-polar and does not have acidic or basic properties.
Analyze Hydrochloric acid (HCl): It is a strong acid, capable of donating a proton (H⁺) in an acid-base reaction, making it the molecule that can pair with a base.