Writing the formulas of conjugate bases

[205696343]

When we are writing the formulas of conjugate bases, how will we know whether an acid is donating only one hydrogen ion (monoprotic acid) or if it is donating more than one hydrogen ion (polyprotic acid)? When we are writing the formula of the conjugate base should we assume that the acid is monoprotic or are there some widely known exceptions to this rule?

[Brandon Padilla 2L]

I think we should always assume that the acid is monoprotic unless told otherwise.

[Noa Popko 3I]

I think generally when we are writing a conjugate base we are assuming the case that only one hydrogen is removed even if theoretically more can be removed.

[Allison Li 2F]

Usually, the acid is monoprotic because removing the second or third proton is not favorable and takes more energy due to the strong electronegativity. That is why ka1 is greater than ka2, which is greater than ka3.

[005493723]

It seems that most of the problems we work with only have molecules that are monoprotic. Based on how his exams have been set up I would guess he would clarify in the problem if it is something different.