Which substances are most likely acids? Check all that apply.
[tex]$CH _4$[/tex]
HI
[tex]$NH _3$[/tex]
[tex]$HNO _3$[/tex]
NaCl
Answer (2)
HI, H N O 3
Explanation
Identifying Acids We need to identify which of the given substances are acids. Acids are substances that can donate protons (H+) or accept electrons. Let's examine each substance individually.
Analyzing Methane
C H 4 (Methane): Methane is a nonpolar molecule composed of carbon and hydrogen. It does not readily donate protons or accept electrons, so it is neither acidic nor basic.
Analyzing Hydroiodic Acid
HI (Hydroiodic acid): HI is a hydrohalic acid. It is a strong acid because it readily donates a proton (H+) in solution.
Analyzing Ammonia
N H 3 (Ammonia): Ammonia is a base. It accepts protons rather than donating them.
Analyzing Nitric Acid
H N O 3 (Nitric acid): H N O 3 is nitric acid, which is a strong acid. It readily donates a proton (H+) in solution.
Analyzing Sodium Chloride
NaCl (Sodium chloride): Sodium chloride is a neutral salt formed from the reaction of a strong acid (HCl) and a strong base (NaOH). It does not exhibit acidic or basic properties in solution.
Conclusion Therefore, the substances that are most likely acids are HI and H N O 3 .
Examples
Acids are essential in various chemical processes, both in the lab and in everyday life. For example, in our stomachs, hydrochloric acid (HCl) helps to digest food. In the industry, sulfuric acid ( H 2 S O 4 ) is used in the production of fertilizers, detergents, and many other products. Understanding which substances are acids and how they behave is crucial for safely handling chemicals and understanding their roles in different applications.
The acids among the given options are HI and H N O 3 , as both can donate protons in solution. C H 4 , N H 3 , and NaCl do not exhibit acidic properties. HI is a strong acid, and H N O 3 is also a well-known strong acid.
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