The acid strength decreases in the series HBr HSO₄^- CH₃COOH HCN HCO₃^-.Which of the following is the strongest base? A)SO₄^2- B)CO₃^2- C)CH₃COO^- D)Br^- E)CN^-

Question

The acid strength decreases in the series HBr > HSO₄^- > CH₃COOH > HCN > HCO₃^-.Which of the following is the strongest base? A)SO₄^2- B)CO₃^2- C)CH₃COO^- D)Br^- E)CN^-

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The strongest base corresponds to the conjugate base of the weakest acid. Since HCO₃⁻ is the weakest acid in the series, its conjugate base, CO₃²⁻, is the strongest base.

The Acid Strength Decreases in the Series HBr > HSO4-

The Acid Strength Decreases in the Series HBr > HSO₄^-