Question

According to Bronsted-Lowry concept, the correct order of relative strength of bases follows the order:

a) CH₃COO--> CI > OH
b) CH₃COO--> OH > CI
c) OH > CH₃COO > CI
d) OH > CI > CH₃COO

Answer 1

Using the Brønsted-Lowry acid-base concept and examining the tendencies to form hydroxide ions in an aqueous solution, the correct order of base strength from greatest to least is hydroxide (OH-), acetate ion (CH₃COO-), and chloride ion (Cl-), resulting in the order c) OH > CH₃COO > Cl.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to the Brønsted-Lowry concept of acidity and basicity, an acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+), and a base is a substance that accepts a proton. In the given question, the student must determine the correct order of relative strength for different bases.

When ranking the strengths of bases by their tendency to form hydroxide ions in an aqueous solution, we rely on the acid-base ionization constants and known behaviors of the species in water. Hydroxide ions (OH-) are the strongest base among the given options because they directly provide hydroxide to the system. The acetate ion (CH₃COO-) is a weaker base than hydroxide but is still considered a relatively strong base. The chloride ion (Cl-), being the conjugate base of a strong acid (HCl), is the weakest base among the given options because of its limited propensity to accept protons.

Therefore, the correct order for the relative strengths of the given bases is:

1. OH- ) >
2. CH₃COO- ) >
3. Cl- )

So the correct answer is: c) OH > CH₃COO > Cl