With which of the following will the weak acid HCHO2 react? If a reaction occurs, write the balanced molecular equation. If no reaction occurs write the left half of the reaction and use "NR". Do not include physical states in your answers.
KOH:
NH3:
The weak acid HCHO2 will react with KOH.
The balanced molecular equation for the reaction is:
HCHO2 + KOH -> KCHO2 + H2O
HCHO2 does not react with NH3.
Therefore, the left half of the reaction is:
HCHO2 + NR
To determine if the weak acid HCHO2 will react with KOH or NH3, we need to analyze the properties of the acid and the bases.
HCHO2 is a weak acid, also known as formic acid. It is a monoprotic acid, meaning it can donate only one proton (H+). HCHO2 will react with a base by donating its proton.
KOH is a strong base, specifically potassium hydroxide. It is a strong base because it dissociates completely in water to produce hydroxide ions (OH-).
NH3 is ammonia, which is a weak base. It can accept a proton to form the ammonium ion (NH4+).
Now, let's determine if a reaction will occur between HCHO2 and KOH or NH3:
1. HCHO2 + KOH:
Since KOH is a strong base and HCHO2 is a weak acid, a neutralization reaction will occur. The H+ from HCHO2 will react with the OH- from KOH to form water (H2O). The balanced molecular equation for this reaction will be:
HCHO2 + KOH -> H2O + KCHO2
2. HCHO2 + NH3:
Since NH3 is a weak base and HCHO2 is a weak acid, a reaction is possible. Ammonia (NH3) can act as a Lewis base, accepting a proton (H+) from the weak acid HCHO2. The balanced molecular equation for this reaction will be:
HCHO2 + NH3 -> NH4+ + CHO2-
Thus, the reaction between HCHO2 and KOH will result in the formation of water (H2O) and potassium formate (KCHO2), while the reaction between HCHO2 and NH3 will result in the formation of ammonium ion (NH4+) and formate ion (CHO2-).
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HCOOH is formic acid. It will react with both NH3 and KOH.The general formula is
acid + base = salt + water.
HCOOH + KOH ==> HCOOK + H2O
HCOOK is potassium formate.