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Which equations represent NH₃ as a conjugate acid and a conjugate base?

a) NH₄⁺ ⟶ NH₃ + H⁺
b) NH₃ + H₂O ⟶ NH₄⁺ + OH⁻
c) NH₃ ⟶ NH₄⁺ + e⁻
d) NH₃ + H⁺ ⟶ NH₄⁺

User Runita
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Final answer:

NH₃ acts as a conjugate base in the reaction NH₃ + H₂O → NH₄⁺ + OH⁻, and as a conjugate acid in NH₂⁻ + H⁺ → NH₃. The ability to gain or lose a proton makes NH₃ an amphiprotic species.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which equations represent ammonia (NH₃) as a conjugate acid and a conjugate base. The correct equations are:

  • As a conjugate base: NH₃ + H₂O → NH₄⁺ + OH⁻
  • As a conjugate acid: NH₂⁻ + H⁺ → NH₃

Equation (a) NH₄⁺ → NH₃ + H⁺ shows ammonia acting as a conjugate base, and equation (d) NH₃ + H⁺ → NH₄⁺ shows it as a conjugate acid. The transfer of a proton defines the acid-base reaction, making ammonia an amphiprotic species as it can both gain and lose a proton.

User Benibr
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