Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2009 2009Moderate

Which one of the following is strongest acid?

Correct answer: B. CHCl2_COOH

  • A. CH2Cl_CH2-COOH
  • B. CHCl2_COOH
  • C. CH3_COOH
  • D. CH3-CH2-COOH

Explanation

In this case, the acidity of the carboxylic acids can be compared based on the stability of their corresponding conjugate bases. The more stable the conjugate base, the stronger the acid. Therefore, option B (CHCl2-COOH) is the strongest acid among the given options.

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About Reactivity of Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids show acidic behaviour because their carboxylate ions are resonance-stabilised, and electron-withdrawing groups can change their strength. Reactions include neutralisation, esterification, formation of acid chlorides and amides, reduction, decarboxylation and substitution at the acyl carbon, which differs from the reactions of phenols.

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550 free Carboxylic Acids MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

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