Question

HCN is classified as a weak acid in water. This means that it produces?

1) no hydronium ions.
2) a relatively small fraction of the maximum number of possible hydronium ions.
3) a relatively large fraction of the maximum number of possible hydronium ions.
4) 100

Answer 1

HCN, being a weak acid, produces a relatively small fraction of the 1)maximum number of possible hydronium ions in water. It partially ionizes in solution.

Step-by-step explanation:

HCN is classified as a weak acid in water, which means that it produces a relatively small fraction of the maximum number of possible hydronium ions (H3O+) when it ionizes. Unlike strong acids, which dissociate 100% in water, weak acids only partially dissociate. Therefore, in an aqueous solution, there is an equilibrium between the nonionized HCN molecules, the hydronium ions, and the cyanide ions (CN-). The presence of these hydronium ions, albeit in smaller quantities compared to a strong acid, means that HCN increases the hydronium ion concentration in water, just not to the extent a strong acid would.

Thus, the correct option is:

1. A relatively small fraction of the maximum number of possible hydronium ions.