The conjugate acid of HSO4- is
A) SO42-.
B) HSO4.
C) H2SO4.
D) H2SO4-.
E) HSO3-.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
C) H₂SO₄.
Explanation:
To determine the conjugate acid of HSO₄⁻ (hydrogen sulfate ion), we need to recall the concept of conjugate acid-base pairs.
Step 1: Understanding Conjugate Acid-Base Pairs
A conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton (H⁺). Conversely, a conjugate base is formed when an acid loses a proton.
Step 2: Identifying the Conjugate Acid of HSO₄⁻
- HSO₄⁻ is acting as a base (it can accept a proton).
- If it gains a proton (H⁺), it forms H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid).
- The chemical equation is:
[
HSO₄⁻ + H⁺ → H₂SO₄
] - Therefore, H₂SO₄ is the conjugate acid of HSO₄⁻.
Step 3: Eliminating Incorrect Options
- A) SO₄²⁻ (Sulfate ion): This is actually the conjugate base of HSO₄⁻, not its conjugate acid.
- B) HSO₄: This notation is incorrect; HSO₄⁻ already exists in the problem.
- D) H₂SO₄⁻: This does not exist as a common species.
- E) HSO₃⁻ (Hydrogen sulfite ion): This is unrelated to HSO₄⁻ and belongs to a different acid system (sulfurous acid).
Thus, the correct answer is C) H₂SO₄.
