Question

Why couldn't you substitute HNO₃ for concentrated H₂SO₄ in part IV and V?

a) HNO₃ is not a strong acid.
b) HNO₃ is a reducing agent.
c) HNO₃ is a solid at room temperature.
d) HNO₃ is a weak base.

Answer 1

HNO₃ cannot be substituted for concentrated H₂SO₄ in part IV and V due to reasons such as not being a strong acid, being a reducing agent, being a liquid at room temperature, and being a weak base.

Step-by-step explanation:

A student cannot substitute HNO₃ for concentrated H₂SO₄ in part IV and V for various reasons:

1. HNO₃ is not a strong acid: It behaves like a weak acid when dissolved in certain solvents.
2. HNO₃ is a reducing agent: It has the ability to donate electrons and is not suitable for the reactions in part IV and V.
3. HNO₃ is a liquid at room temperature: It is not a solid at room temperature, so it cannot be used as a substitute.
4. HNO₃ is a weak base: It does not have a high tendency to accept protons, making it unsuitable for the reactions in part IV and V.