Question

Identify the major ionic species present in an aqueous solution of H2SO4? a) H+, SO4^2-

b) H2+, SO4^2-
c) H2SO4^2-
d) H2O, SO4^2-

Answer 1

In an aqueous solution of H₂SO₄, the major ionic species present are H+ and SO₄²⁻. Sulfuric acid dissociates completely to form these ions, with HSO₄²⁻ being a weak base and dissociating further to a lesser extent.

Step-by-step explanation:

The major ionic species present in an aqueous solution of H₂SO₄ are H+ and SO₄²⁻. Sulfuric acid is a strong acid, and it dissociates completely in water to produce hydronium ions (H₃O+) and hydrogen sulfate ions (HSO₄⁻). The hydrogen sulfate ion can act as an acid or a base (amphoteric), but it is a weak base.

Therefore, in aqueous solutions, HSO₄⁻ can further dissociate, although to a lesser extent, to yield additional H+ and sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻).