Question

Write a balanced equation for the proton-transfer reaction between HCl and PO43-.

Options:
A. HCl + PO43- → H2PO4- + Cl-
B. HCl + PO43- → H3PO4 + Cl-
C. HCl + PO43- → H2PO4- + HCl2-
D. HCl + PO43- → HPO4^2- + H2O

Answer 1

HPO4²- is the base that accepts a proton from water to form H2PO4- and OH-. It is the only compound among the options that can act as a base.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this case, HPO42- is the base since it accepts a proton from water to form H2PO4- and OH-. Thus, HPO42- is an acid and base together, making it amphoteric. Since HPO42- is the only compound from the options that can act as a base, the answer is (b) HPO42-.