Question

Classify each of the following compounds as an acid, base, or both. Be sure to answer all parts.

Answer 1

Explanation:

According to Bronsted-Lowry an acid is defined as the specie which is able to donate hydrogen ions when dissolved in water.

For example, $HCl \rightarrow H^{+} + Cl^{-}$

On the other hand, bases are the species which are able to donate hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.

For example, $NaOH \rightarrow Na^{+} + OH^{-}$

In $CH_{3}CH_{2}OH$ compound, when it will lose hydrogen ion then it will result in the formation of a $CH_{3}CH_{2}O^{-}$ (alkoxide ion). As the carbon atoms are donating their positive charge towards the $O^{-}$ ion so, it will become unstable in nature.

As a result, it will neither give a hydrogen ion or a hydroxide ion.

In $CH_{3}CH_{2}CH_{2}CH_{3}$, there is no difference in the electronegativity of both carbon and hydrogen atoms. Therefore, this compound is not polar in nature hence, it will neither give a hydrogen or hydroxide ion.

In $CH_{3}CO_{2}CH_{3}$ there is presence of no -OH group. Hence, it will neither give a hydroxide or hydrogen ion.

Thus, we can conclude that none of the given compounds will act as an acid or a base.