Question

For each of the following, classify as acid or base, strong or weak, or amphoteric, and then write a balanced equation for its ionization in water:

a. F⁻
b. HSO₃⁻
c. HCl
d. HCO₃⁻
e. CH₃COOH

Answer 1

a. F⁻ is a weak base. b. HSO₃⁻ is a weak acid. c. HCl is a strong acid. d. HCO₃⁻ is amphoteric. e. CH₃COOH is a weak acid.

Step-by-step explanation:

a. F⁻ is a weak base. The balanced equation for its ionization in water is F⁻(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ HF(aq) + OH⁻(aq).

b. HSO₃⁻ is a weak acid. The balanced equation for its ionization in water is HSO₃⁻(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ H₂SO₃(aq) + OH⁻(aq).

c. HCl is a strong acid. The balanced equation for its ionization in water is HCl(aq) + H₂O(l) → H₃O⁺(aq) + Cl⁻(aq).

d. HCO₃⁻ is amphoteric. It can act as both an acid and a base. The balanced equation for its ionization in water depends on the reaction it undergoes.

e. CH₃COOH is a weak acid. The balanced equation for its ionization in water is CH₃COOH(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ CH₃COO⁻(aq) + H₃O⁺(aq).