Chapter 2: Problem 13
Amide ion, \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-}\), is a much stronger base than hydroxide ion, \(\mathrm{HO}^{-}\). Which is the stronger acid, \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) or \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) ? Explain.
Short Answer
Expert verified
\( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \) is the stronger acid.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Problem
We need to compare the acid strength between ammonia \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) and water \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \). This can help us determine which conjugate base is weaker. A weaker conjugate base corresponds to a stronger acid.
02
Examining Conjugate Bases
\( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) is the conjugate acid of the amide ion (\( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \)), and \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \) is the conjugate acid of the hydroxide ion (\( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \)). Since \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \) is a stronger base than \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \), it suggests that the conjugate acid of \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \), which is \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \), is a weaker acid compared to \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \).
03
Conclusion on Acid Strength
The stronger base \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \) implies its conjugate acid \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) is weaker than \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \), the conjugate acid of the weaker base \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \). Thus, \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \) is the stronger acid between the two.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Amide Ion
The amide ion, represented as \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \), is an interesting structure in acid-base chemistry. It's classified as a conjugate base, derived from the compound ammonia \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \). This ion is characterized by the addition of an extra electron, which gives it a negative charge. This additional electron results in a very strong attraction to protons. Since it can accept a proton easily, it behaves as a strong base. Understanding how the amide ion works is vital for predicting the behavior of related compounds.
- It's a strong base due to the presence of an extra electron.
- It seeks to stabilize by bonding with a proton.
Hydroxide Ion
The hydroxide ion \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \) is a common and important ion in chemistry. It consists of a hydrogen and an oxygen atom with an extra electron, making it negatively charged. This ion is well-known for its role as a base in many chemical reactions. Its structural simplicity does not diminish its function.
- Commonly found in bases such as sodium hydroxide \( \mathrm{NaOH} \).
- Participates in neutralization reactions with acids.
Conjugate Acids and Bases
Understanding conjugate acids and bases is essential in acid-base chemistry. A conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton, while a conjugate base forms when an acid loses a proton. This interconversion is crucial for reactions and equilibrium. In our context:
- \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) is the conjugate acid of the amide ion \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \).
- \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \) is the conjugate acid of the hydroxide ion \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \).
Acid Strength Comparison
Comparing acid strengths helps us predict reactivity and stability. In this exercise, we compare ammonia \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) and water \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \). Since the amide ion \( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~N}^{-} \) is a stronger base than \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \), its conjugate acid \( \mathrm{NH}_{3} \) is weaker.
- The weaker the conjugate base, the stronger the acid.
- \( \mathrm{H}_{2}O \) is a stronger acid because its conjugate base \( \mathrm{HO}^{-} \) is weaker.