Understanding Conjugate Acids in Acid-Base Reactions

[apchemstudent]

I'm guessing the answer is a). I found a similar problem except if the bicarbonate was mixed with water instead. And the selections were:
H3O(+), OH(-), CO3(2-), H2CO3

I think the answer to that question would be H2CO3 since it's asking for the conjugate acid which will be the form of bicarbonate when it accepts a proton.

However, in the attachment, that question is asking for the conjugate acid when it is mixed in an acid. So water and carbon dioxide will be produced. and water is the one that accepts the proton.

Am i correct? thanks.

 

[GCT]

your right, it is diprotic acid, E. In this case hydrogen carbonate acts as a base...despite the fact that it also has acid characteristics.

We recently had a fairly lengthy debate over a matter related to this issue, one which still has not been resolved...I aim to resolve it soon.