Q.10.102 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

For each of the following: 

1. HCN

2. $N{H_4}^{+}$

a. Write the formula for the conjugate base.

b. Which is the stronger acid?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Part (a) . conjugate bases are- $C{N}^{-}$ and $N{H}_3$

Part (b) . HCN is the stronger acid 

Step 1 Information Part (a)

In the Brønsted-Lowry meaning of acids and bases, a conjugate acid-base pair comprises two substances that vary exclusively by the presence of a proton (H⁺). A conjugate acid is framed when a proton is added to a base, and a conjugate base is shaped when a proton is eliminated from an acid.

Step 2: Explanation Part (a)

A conjugate base is shaped when a proton is eliminated from an acid.

The conjugate bases are-

$HCN-C{N}^{-}$and $N{H_4}^{+}-N{H}_3$

Step 3: Explanation Part (b)

 HCN is the stronger acid as the conjugate base is weaker.