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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is considered a strong acid in aqueous solution?
A
Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
B
Water (H2O)
C
Ammonia (NH3)
D
Acetic acid (CH3COOH)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the definition of a strong acid: A strong acid is one that completely ionizes (dissociates) in water, releasing a high concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
Examine each compound to determine its ionization behavior in water: Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Water (H₂O), Ammonia (NH₃), and Acetic acid (CH₃COOH).
Consider Hydrochloric acid (HCl): It is known to completely dissociate in water, forming H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, which is characteristic of a strong acid.
Evaluate Water (H₂O) and Ammonia (NH₃): Water is neutral and does not ionize significantly, while Ammonia is a weak base, not an acid.
Analyze Acetic acid (CH₃COOH): It is a weak acid because it only partially ionizes in water, releasing fewer H⁺ ions compared to a strong acid like HCl.