Question

Compare the conjugate bases of these three acids. Acid 1: hypochlorous acid , HClO Acid 2: phosphoric acid , H3PO4 Acid 3: hydrogen sulfide , HS- What is the formula for the weakest conjugate base ?

Answer 1

The weakest conjugate is HClO-.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a general rule, the stronger the Bronsted-Lowry acid, the weaker its conjugate base, and vice versa.

Acid 1: HClO is a strong acid, hence its conjugate base would be weak

Acid 2: H3PO4 is a weak acid, hence its conjugate base would be strong

Acid 3: hydrogen sulphide is also a moderately weak acid with a moderately strong conjugate base.

In order of increasing strengths:

HClO < H2S < H3PO4