Consider two acids: (ch3) 3cco2h (pivalic acid, pka = 5.0) and hco2h (formic acid, pka = 3.8). Which acid forms the stronger conjugate base? Select the single best answer.

Question

Amira Swanson

Chemistry

2 January, 10:50

Consider two acids: (ch3) 3cco2h (pivalic acid, pka = 5.0) and hco2h (formic acid, pka = 3.8). Which acid forms the stronger conjugate base? Select the single best answer.

+3

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Madeline Gray · Answer 1

Pivalic acid forms a strong conjugate base.

Explanation:

Strong acid has weak conjugate base Weak acid has strong conjugate base

As in this case, pivalic acid is weak acid (Due to electron donating effect of tert. butyl group) having pka value of 5.0, so its conjugate base will be strong as compare to formic acid which is stronger acid.

Summary:

As pivalic acid is weak acid as compare to formic acid, so its conjugate base will be strong and vice versa.