Problem 84 - Chemistry The Molecular Science

Question

Write the formula for the conjugate acid of \(\left[\mathrm{Zn}(\mathrm{OH})_{4}\right]^{2-} .\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The conjugate acid is \([\mathrm{Zn} (\mathrm{OH})_4\text{H}]^{-}\).

Step 1: Understand the Concept of Conjugate Acids

A conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton (\(\text{H}^+\)). In this problem, we need to add an \(\text{H}^+\) to the base \([\mathrm{Zn} (\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\).

Step 2: Identify the Base and Proton Addition

The base in this problem is \([\mathrm{Zn} (\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\). To find its conjugate acid, add one \(\text{H}^+\). This changes the charge from \(2-\) to \(1-\).

Step 3: Write the Chemical Formula

After adding a proton, the formula becomes \([\mathrm{Zn} (\mathrm{OH})_4\text{H}]^{-}\). The charge changes appropriately with the addition of the proton.

Key Concepts

Proton Addition

Proton addition is a fundamental concept in chemistry, particularly in the context of acids and bases. Simply put, when a molecule gains a proton, which is a hydrogen ion (\(\text{H}^+\)), it forms its conjugate acid. This process alters the overall charge of the substance. For example, if you have a compound like \([\mathrm{Zn}(\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\), gaining a proton changes its charge from \(2-\) to \(1-\). Understanding proton addition is crucial in the study of acid-base reactions and facilitates the prediction of how compounds will behave in chemical environments.

Zinc Hydroxide Complex

Zinc hydroxide complex, represented as \([\mathrm{Zn}(\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\), plays an interesting role in coordination chemistry. This complex consists of a central zinc ion surrounded by four hydroxide ions, creating a stable coordination compound. Coordination compounds like this are fascinating because they integrate metals with surrounding molecules or ions, known as ligands.

• The zinc atom acts as a metal center, coordinating with the \(\mathrm{OH}^-\) groups.
• The net charge of the entire complex is \(2-\), signifying the presence of two extra electrons compared to protons.

Recognizing the coordination nature of such complexes helps in predicting their potential reactions, such as formation of conjugate acids.

Chemical Formula Writing

Writing chemical formulas is essential in communicating the composition and charge of chemical compounds. It entails understanding how atoms combine and how their charges affect the overall stability of the compound.When writing formulas, balance is key. Each formula represents the precise number of each type of atom in the compound, including the overall charge.

• Start with the central atom or ion, which in some coordination complexes, acts as the backbone of the structure. Here, it's Zn in \([\mathrm{Zn}(\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\).
• Follow with attached groups or ligands, like \(\mathrm{OH}^-\), noting their quantity and arrangement.
• Make sure to account for the charge effect when gaining or losing protons. When forming a conjugate acid, the charge changes to reflect the addition of \(\text{H}^+\), resulting in a new formula: \([\mathrm{Zn}(\mathrm{OH})_4\text{H}]^{-}\).

With these steps, you can effectively write and comprehend any chemical formula, describing the interactions and changes at the molecular level.