Hydrogen bonding preference in acids

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SUMMARY

Hydrogen bonding preference in acids, particularly in thiocyanic acid (HSCN), shows a significant tendency for hydrogen to bond with nitrogen (N) over sulfur (S). This preference is attributed to the electronegativity differences between nitrogen and sulfur, where nitrogen's higher electronegativity facilitates stronger hydrogen bonding. The discussion highlights the molecular structure of thiocyanic acid and the implications of hydrogen bonding on its chemical behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydrogen bonding principles
  • Knowledge of molecular structure and electronegativity
  • Familiarity with thiocyanic acid (HSCN) and its properties
  • Basic chemistry concepts related to acids and their behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of electronegativity in hydrogen bonding
  • Explore the molecular structure of thiocyanic acid (HSCN)
  • Learn about the properties and applications of nitrogen-containing acids
  • Investigate other acids with similar hydrogen bonding characteristics
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Chemistry students, researchers in chemical bonding, and professionals studying molecular interactions in acids.

PhysicsCanuck
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TL;DR
Why does hydrogen bond more readily/commonly to one end/atom and not the other? (and which is more common?)
thiocyanic acid.jpg

I can't figure out why hydrogen is more likely to bond to either the nitrogen or to the sulphur atom.
I can't locate any information in any textbooks or online as to which molecule is more prevalent/common.

This is not a homework question.
I just came across one of these molecules and wondered why the hydrogen was on one end and not the other.Thank you for your help here!
 
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DrClaude said:
The hydrogen can bond to either side, but mostly to N:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiocyanic_acid
Thank you very much, DrClaude.
Could you tell me why hydrogen more readily/commonly bonds to the nitrogen?

Thank you very much for your time and help here
 

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