If HClO2 is a stronger acid than HF, which is stronger than HOCl, then
the order of strengths of the conjugate bases of these acids is ______ < _____ < _____
a) ClO- < F- < ClO2-
b) ClO2- < ClO- < F-
e) F- < ClO2- < ClO-
c) ClO- < ClO2- < F-
d) ClO2- < F- < ClO-
how do you do this?
Write the order given in the problem, then reverse for the order of the conjugate bases.
For example, HCl is a STRONG acid; therefore, the Cl^- is a WEAK conjugate base.
To determine the order of strengths of the conjugate bases of these acids, we need to consider their acid dissociation constants (Ka) or the equilibrium constants for the dissociation of the acids.
Let's start by comparing HClO2 and HF. Since HClO2 is a stronger acid than HF, it means that it dissociates more readily in water, resulting in a higher concentration of H+ ions. This implies that the conjugate base of HClO2, ClO2-, is a weaker base than the conjugate base of HF, F-.
Next, let's compare HF and HOCl. Since HF is stronger than HOCl, it means that it will donate its H+ more readily. Therefore, the conjugate base of HF, F-, is a weaker base than the conjugate base of HOCl, ClO-.
Putting these comparisons together, we can conclude that the order of strengths of the conjugate bases of these acids is:
d) ClO2- < F- < ClO-