Moderate

Why is chloroethanoic acid, ClCH2CO2H, a stronger acid than ethanoic acid?

Correct answer: D. Chlorine withdraws electreon and stabilizes the ClCH2CO2- anion

  • A. Chlorine releases electrons and destabilizes ClCH2CO2- anion
  • B. Chlorine releases electrons and stabilizes the ClCH2CO2- anion
  • C. Chlorine withdraws electrons destabilizes ClCH2CO2- anion
  • D. Chlorine withdraws electreon and stabilizes the ClCH2CO2- anion

Explanation

The general equation is: HA--->H++A- When A- formed is more stbale, the equilibrium lies more to the right. More HA dissociates and hence it is a stronger acid. The presence of Cl- withdraws the negative charge by inductive effect since Cl- is electronegative. This disperses the negative charge and hence stabilizes the anion.

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About Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids are named and studied through the combined effects of the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups, their preparation, acidity and hydrogen bonding. Reactions include neutralisation, esterification, reduction and conversion into acid chlorides, anhydrides, esters and amides, with emphasis on how these derivatives interconvert.

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