How do I classify acids and bases in chemistry?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the classification of acids and bases in chemistry, exploring how to determine whether a compound is a strong acid, weak acid, strong base, weak base, or amphoteric. It includes theoretical considerations and conceptual clarifications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on how to classify compounds as strong or weak acids and bases.
  • Another participant suggests comparing the original compound with its deprotonated form and considering stabilizing effects such as resonance.
  • A participant mentions that strong bases are typically soluble strong electrolytes, specifically referring to salts of hydroxide ions.
  • One participant questions the terminology used regarding bases and salts, indicating a need for clarity on the definition of a salt.
  • A later reply provides an example, stating that NaOH is a salt of a hydroxide ion and explains its behavior in solution.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of the stability of the conjugate in determining the strength of an acid or base.
  • A link to an external resource on acids and bases is provided for further reference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definitions and classifications of acids and bases, with some clarifications and challenges to terminology. No consensus is reached on the definitions of terms like "salt" in this context.

Contextual Notes

Some definitions and assumptions regarding acids, bases, and their classifications remain unresolved, particularly concerning the terminology used for salts and hydroxide ions.

Prone17
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Can anyone explain to me how to determine whether a compound is a strong acid, weak acid, strong base, weak base, or amphoteric? Thanks!
 
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For acids, compare the original compound with the deprotonated compound. Look for stabilizing effects like resonance. For select families of organic molecules, conjugation may play a part.

The only stong bases I know of are readily soluble strong electrolytes which are salts of hydroxide ions.
 
What is this? :
The only stong bases I know of are readily soluble strong electrolytes which are salts of hydroxide ions.

Your other descriptive information is good, but what is a salt of hydroxide ion? A base is not a salt.
 
For example, NaOH is a salt of a hydroxide ion. It goes into solution, dissolves into ions, and the hydroxide acts as the base.
 
Look at the stability of the conjugate. The more stable the conjugate, the stronger the acid or base.
 
http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/~cchieh/cact/c123/baseacid.html
 

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