HCN + HF Reaction & Acid-Base Indicator Characteristics

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SUMMARY

The reaction between hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and hydrofluoric acid (HF) does not yield a straightforward product, as the expected reaction does not occur due to the strong hydrogen bonding characteristics of HF. The proposed products, such as ammonia (NH3) and trifluoroacetic acid (HCF3), are incorrect. Instead, the interaction between HCN and HF suggests that no significant reaction takes place because HF's strong affinity for hydrogen prevents effective deprotonation of HCN. Additionally, the discussion highlights that a good characteristic of an acid-base indicator includes an intense color change.

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  • Understanding of acid-base reactions
  • Knowledge of hydrogen bonding principles
  • Familiarity with chemical reaction equations
  • Basic concepts of acid-base indicators
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  • Research the properties of hydrogen bonding in HF and its implications in acid-base reactions
  • Study the characteristics and functions of acid-base indicators
  • Explore the chemical behavior of HCN in various acidic environments
  • Investigate the stability and reactivity of trifluoroacetic acid (HCF3) in organic chemistry
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Chemistry students, educators, and researchers interested in acid-base chemistry and the characteristics of acid-base indicators.

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Hcn + Hf --> ?

Homework Statement



-What do HCN + HF form? (I've googled the reaction, can't find anything).
-Also, what're 3 good characteristics of an acid-base indicator?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know it's an acid-base reaction. I'm guessin something like
HCN + HF --> NH3 + CF

-One good characteristic of an acid base indicator would be an intense colour change?
 
Last edited:
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HCN has localized electrons available on the nitrogen and the proton (on carbon) is fairly acidic. This suggests that it should hydrogen bond fairly easily... but is the hydrogen in HF that available for hydrogen bonding?
Fluorine has a strong affinity for hydrogen... but is it strong enough to deprotonate the hydrocyanic acid?
 
so I'm guessing then that there isn't a reaction? because judging from what you said, the only thing I can think of is:

HCN + HF ------> HCF3 + NH3
 

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