Question

A set of aqueous solutions are prepared containing different acids at the same concentration: acetic acid, chloric acid and hydrobromic acid. Which solution(s) are the most electrically conductive?

Answer 1

Answer:

The solutions of hydrobromic acid and of chloric acid are the most electrically conductive.

Explanation:

The electrical conductivity of a solution is determined by the concentration of ions in the solution. The acids listed react with water to form ions. In the case of hydrobromic acid, for example, the reaction is as follows:

HBr + H2O >> H3O(+) + Br(-)

Hydrobromic acid and chloric acid are strong acids, meaning the reaction is considered to proceed at 100%. Acetic acid, however, is a weak acid and the reaction with water does not go to completion, so there are less ionic species in the solution of acetic acid, which makes it less electrically conductive.