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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is not a factor that affects the strength of an acid?
A
Electronegativity of the atom bonded to hydrogen
B
Resonance stabilization of the conjugate base
C
Presence of a catalyst
D
Size of the atom bonded to hydrogen
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the factors that typically affect the strength of an acid. These include the electronegativity of the atom bonded to hydrogen, the size of the atom bonded to hydrogen, and resonance stabilization of the conjugate base.
Understand that electronegativity affects acid strength because more electronegative atoms can better stabilize the negative charge on the conjugate base, making the acid stronger.
Recognize that the size of the atom bonded to hydrogen influences acid strength because larger atoms can better distribute the negative charge over a larger volume, stabilizing the conjugate base.
Consider resonance stabilization, which affects acid strength by delocalizing the negative charge over multiple atoms in the conjugate base, increasing stability and thus acid strength.
Evaluate the role of a catalyst. Catalysts speed up reactions but do not affect the intrinsic strength of an acid. Therefore, the presence of a catalyst is not a factor that affects acid strength.