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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is considered a strong acid in aqueous solution?
A
NH3
B
HCl
C
H2O
D
CH3COOH
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of acid strength: A strong acid is one that completely ionizes in aqueous solution, releasing all of its hydrogen ions (H⁺) into the solution.
Identify the chemical formula of each compound: NH₃ (ammonia), HCl (hydrochloric acid), H₂O (water), CH₃COOH (acetic acid).
Consider the ionization behavior of each compound in water: NH₃ is a weak base, HCl is a strong acid, H₂O is neutral, and CH₃COOH is a weak acid.
Recognize that HCl is a strong acid because it completely dissociates in water, forming H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions. This is represented by the equation:
Compare the dissociation of HCl with CH₃COOH: CH₃COOH only partially dissociates in water, making it a weak acid. The dissociation of CH₃COOH is represented by: