In: Chemistry
Which of the following anions act as weak bases in solution? Check all that apply.
Br−
NO2−
CN−
Cl−
We have to consider the Arrhenius basicity here to compare the basicity. An Arrhenius base reacts with water to give OH- ion in solution, thus making the solution basic.
A-(aq) + H2O(l) --> AH(aq) + OH-(aq)
But some anions do not react with water, they are considered as neutral anion; these are the anions of strong mono-protic acids, e.g., Cl-, Br-, NO3- and ClO4-. The corresponding acids are strong acids and dissociate completely in solution.
HCl ---> H+ + Cl-
Cl-(aq) + H2O (l) ----> No Reaction
Thus, Cl-, Br-, NO3- and ClO4- are not bases, they are neutral.
Anions that form from weak acids (incomplete dissociation) acts as acids (e.g., HSO4-, H2PO4-) or bases.
Now we have to compare between NO2- and CN-. These are conjugate bases of weak acids. We know, conjugate bases of weak acids are strong bases. Between HNO2 and HCN, former is stronger than latter. It is clear from the pKa value of the two acids.
pKa of HNO2 = 3.15
pKa of HCN = 9.31
So, HCN is weaker acid than HNO2.
Thus, NO2- is weaker base than CN-.
Answer: NO2- acts as a weak base in solution. Though CN- also is a weak base, it is stronger than NO2-.