Given the Following K_a Values, Which Anion Is the Strongest

question 105

Multiple Choice

Given the following K_a values, which anion is the strongest base $\begin{array}{|l|l|}\hline \text { Acid } & \mathrm{K}_{\mathrm{a}} \\\hline \mathrm{HF} & 7.1 \times 10^{-4} \\\hline \mathrm{HCOOH} & 1.7 \times 10^{-4} \\\hline \mathrm{HCN} & 4.9 \times 10^{-10} \\\hline \mathrm{HNO}_{2} & 4.5 \times 10^{-4} \\\hline \mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{COOH} & 1.8 \times 10^{-5} \\\hline\end{array}$

• A) F^-
• B) HCOO^-
• C) CN^-
• D) NO₂^-
• E) CH₃COO^-

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Definitions:

Secondary

In chemistry, indicates molecules or functional groups that are attached to a secondary carbon atom, which itself is connected to two other carbon atoms.

Tertiary

Referring to an organic molecule or an ion that has a carbon atom connected to three other carbon atoms.

IUPAC Name

Naming chemicals systematically in alignment with the regulations provided by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry.

Primary Alcohol

An alcohol with the hydroxyl group attached to a carbon atom that is bound to only one other carbon atom.