Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the titration of amino acids with strong bases, specifically addressing why the hydrogen from the carboxyl (COOH) group is removed before that from the amino (NH3+) group. Participants explore the underlying reasons for this sequence in terms of acidity and molecular interactions.
Discussion Character
- Homework-related
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions the order of hydrogen removal during titration, suggesting that the repulsion from the NH3+ group might influence the carboxyl hydrogen being removed first.
- Another participant asks which group is typically the stronger acid, COOH or NH3+, indicating a need for clarification on their relative acid strengths.
- A follow-up response reiterates the question about the acid strength of COOH compared to NH3+, expressing uncertainty about NH3+ acting as a weak acid or a base.
- A later reply clarifies that -NH2 is a base and -NH3+ is a conjugate acid, contributing to the discussion on acid-base behavior.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the reasons behind the order of hydrogen removal, and multiple competing views regarding the acid strengths of COOH and NH3+ remain unresolved.
Contextual Notes
The discussion highlights assumptions about acid strength and the influence of molecular structure on titration behavior, but these aspects are not fully resolved or defined.