215k views
0 votes
Which of the following is an example of a weak electrolyte?

a) HNO₃
b) HC₂H3O₂
c) Na₂CO₃
d) MgCl₂

User Andy Smart
by
7.8k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The weak electrolyte from the given options is HC₂H₃O₂, commonly known as acetic acid, because it partially dissociates in water, compared to other options which are strong electrolytes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The example of a weak electrolyte from the choices provided is b) HC₂H₃O₂, which is also known as acetic acid. Weak electrolytes partially dissociate in water, creating relatively low concentrations of ions compared to strong electrolytes, which fully dissociate. Strong acids like HNO₃ and ionic compounds such as MgCl₂ and Na₂CO₃, which fully dissociate, are considered strong electrolytes. Therefore, acetic acid (HC₂H₃O₂) is correctly identified as a weak electrolyte as it does not completely ionize in an aqueous solution, unlike HCl which is known to be a strong acid and fully dissociates.

User Niki B
by
7.9k points