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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the concept of acid strength in organic chemistry?
A
Acid strength is determined by the ability of an acid to accept a proton.
B
Acid strength is determined by the molecular weight of the acid.
C
Acid strength is determined by the ability of an acid to donate a proton.
D
Acid strength is determined by the number of hydrogen atoms in the acid molecule.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definition of an acid in the context of organic chemistry. According to the Brønsted-Lowry theory, an acid is a substance that can donate a proton (H⁺ ion) to another substance.
Evaluate the first statement: 'Acid strength is determined by the ability of an acid to accept a proton.' This describes a base, not an acid, as bases accept protons.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Acid strength is determined by the molecular weight of the acid.' Molecular weight does not directly determine acid strength; rather, it is the ability to donate a proton.
Evaluate the third statement: 'The correct answer is: Acid strength is determined by the ability of an acid to donate a proton.' This aligns with the Brønsted-Lowry definition of an acid.
Evaluate the fourth statement: 'Acid strength is determined by the number of hydrogen atoms in the acid molecule.' The number of hydrogen atoms does not determine acid strength; it is the ability to donate a proton that matters.