Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best explains why the strength of an acid is not a fixed value?
3. Acids and Bases
Acids and Bases
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Which of the following compounds is the strongest acid?
A
Acetic acid (CH3COOH)
B
Phenol (C6H5OH)
C
Water (H2O)
D
Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of acidity: Acidity is determined by the ability of a compound to donate a proton (H⁺). The stronger the acid, the more readily it donates a proton.
Consider the structure and stability of the conjugate base: A strong acid has a weak conjugate base. Evaluate the stability of the conjugate bases formed after each compound donates a proton.
Evaluate the electronegativity and size of the atoms involved: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) contains chlorine, which is highly electronegative and can stabilize the negative charge of the conjugate base (Cl⁻) effectively.
Compare the acidity of organic acids: Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) and phenol (C₆H₅OH) are organic acids. Acetic acid is a carboxylic acid, which is generally stronger than phenol, an alcohol, due to resonance stabilization of its conjugate base.
Consider the acidity of water: Water (H₂O) is a very weak acid compared to acetic acid, phenol, and hydrochloric acid. It does not readily donate a proton compared to the other compounds listed.
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