Final answer:
HOCl is the stronger acid compared to HClO2. H2SeO4 is the stronger acid compared to H2SeO3.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to determine the stronger acid in each pair, we need to compare the stability of their conjugate bases. The stronger the acid, the weaker its conjugate base.
(a) HOCl is the stronger acid compared to HClO2. This is because the conjugate base of HOCl, ClO-, is more stable than the conjugate base of HClO2, ClO2-.
(b) H2SeO4 is the stronger acid compared to H2SeO3. This is because the conjugate base of H2SeO4, SeO42-, is more stable than the conjugate base of H2SeO3, SeO32-.
When considering the strength of acids in each pair provided, the principles of acid-base equilibria and the properties of oxoacids and their corresponding elements offer insights.
Choosing the Stronger Acid
(a) HOCl vs. HClO₂: HClO₂ is the stronger acid because when comparing oxoacids with the same central element, the acid with more oxygen atoms is generally stronger as it is better at stabilizing the negative charge that results from losing a proton (H+).
(b) H₂SeO₄ vs. H₂SeO₃: Similarly, H₂SeO₄ is the stronger acid because it has more oxygen atoms than H₂SeO₃ leading to a higher oxidation state for the central atom, enhancing its acid strength.