Which of the following is the strongest acid?
Correct Answer: Formic acid (HCOOH)
- Step 1: Understand what an acid is. An acid is a substance that can donate a hydrogen ion (H+) to another substance.
- Step 2: Identify the acids in the question. The acids mentioned are formic acid (HCOOH) and acetic acid (CH3COOH).
- Step 3: Look at the structure of formic acid. It has a hydrogen atom directly attached to the carbonyl carbon (C=O).
- Step 4: Look at the structure of acetic acid. It has a methyl group (CH3) attached to the carbonyl carbon instead of a hydrogen.
- Step 5: Understand the concept of conjugate bases. When an acid donates a hydrogen ion, it forms a conjugate base.
- Step 6: Realize that the stability of the conjugate base affects the strength of the acid. A more stable conjugate base means a stronger acid.
- Step 7: Conclude that formic acid's conjugate base is more stable because it has a hydrogen atom that can help stabilize the negative charge.
- Step 8: Therefore, formic acid (HCOOH) is stronger than acetic acid (CH3COOH).
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