Chemistry: Molecular Approach (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134112830
ISBN 13: 978-0-13411-283-1

Chapter 16 - Self-Assessment Quiz - Page 767: Q3

Answer

(d) $CN^-$ is the strongest conjugate base.

Work Step by Step

The strength of the acid is inversely proportional to the strength of the conjugate base: The stronger the acid, the weaker its conjugate base. In order to identify the strongest conjugate base, we must find the weakest acid, which is the one with lowest $K_a$. The acid with lowest $K_a$ in this table is $HCN$; therefore, $CN^-$ is the strongest conjugate base.
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