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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is considered a strong acid in aqueous solution?
A
Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
B
Acetic acid (CH3COOH)
C
Ammonia (NH3)
D
Water (H2O)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the nature of each compound: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid, Acetic acid (CH3COOH) is a weak acid, Ammonia (NH3) is a weak base, and Water (H2O) is neutral.
Understand the concept of strong acids: Strong acids completely dissociate in water, releasing a high concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
Compare the dissociation of each compound in water: HCl dissociates completely into H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, while CH3COOH only partially dissociates, NH3 does not release H⁺ ions, and H2O is neutral.
Recognize that the strength of an acid is determined by its ability to donate protons (H⁺ ions) in solution.
Conclude that Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is the strong acid among the given options because it fully dissociates in aqueous solution, providing a high concentration of H⁺ ions.