Which is the strongest acid, H2CO3 or H2GeO3? (Justify your answer)
In the answer key, it says H2CO3 is the stronger acid because C is more electronegative. However, I thought that when comparing acids in which the only difference is the central atom, you compare the bond strengths for elements in the same group. Since Ge and C come from the same group (not the same period), shouldn't the justification come from comparing the bond strengths, not the electronegativity?
6c.19 f
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Re: 6c.19 f
Electronegativity and bond strengths both play a factor in determining acid strength. Since it is more electronegative, it becomes more polar which makes it easier to dissociate.
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Re: 6c.19 f
So, in this case, the difference in electronegativity would dominate over the difference in bond strength?
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Re: 6c.19 f
What does it mean when high electronegativity makes an O-H bond more polar?
Does it mean that the electron density on O is shifted to a high electronegative atom that causes H to have a more partial positive charge?
Does it mean that the electron density on O is shifted to a high electronegative atom that causes H to have a more partial positive charge?
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Re: 6c.19 f
I believe the more elctronegative one is more able to stabilize the resulting ion so it is easier for the acid to lose its hydrogen when put into solution.
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