Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of a strong acid in aqueous solution?
A
It forms a weak conjugate base.
B
It completely dissociates into ions.
C
It has a high pH value.
D
It partially dissociates into ions.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a strong acid: A strong acid is one that completely dissociates in water, meaning it releases all of its hydrogen ions (H⁺) into the solution.
Consider the dissociation process: In aqueous solution, a strong acid dissociates completely, forming H⁺ ions and its conjugate base. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) dissociates into H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions.
Evaluate the characteristics of the conjugate base: Since a strong acid dissociates completely, its conjugate base is weak because it has little tendency to recombine with H⁺ ions.
Analyze the pH value: A strong acid will have a low pH value because the concentration of H⁺ ions is high, which is inversely related to pH.
Compare dissociation levels: A strong acid does not partially dissociate; it fully dissociates, unlike weak acids which only partially dissociate in solution.