Question

In the equilibrium below, which species can be indentified as a base? Select all that apply. HS (aq) + H2O (l)? H2S (aq) + OH' (aq) ?? HoS HST OH

Answer 1

HS⁻ and OH⁻

Step-by-step explanation:

Per the Brønsted-Lowry theory, a base is a substance that can accept a proton from another substance

HS⁻ + H₂O ⇌ H₂S + OH⁻

base base

The reaction above is an equilibrium reaction.

In the forward reaction, HS⁻ is acting as a base, because it is "accepting" a proton from water to become H₂S.

In the reverse reaction, OH⁻ is acting as a base, because it is "accepting" a proton from H₂S to become H₂O.