Ch.4 - Reactions in Aqueous Solution

Brown - Chemistry: The Central Science 14th Edition

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Brown 14th Edition

Ch.4 - Reactions in Aqueous Solution

Problem 35b

Chapter 4, Problem 35b

Label each of the following substances as an acid, base, salt, or none of the above. Indicate whether the substance exists in aqueous solution entirely in molecular form, entirely as ions, or as a mixture of molecules and ions. (b) acetonitrile, CH3CN

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Identify the type of compound: Acetonitrile, CH3CN, is an organic compound containing a nitrile group. It does not release H+ ions like acids or accept H+ ions like bases, nor is it composed of cations and anions like salts.

Classify the substance: Since acetonitrile does not exhibit properties of acids, bases, or salts, it is classified as 'none of the above'.

Determine the state in aqueous solution: Acetonitrile is a polar molecule due to the electronegativity difference between the carbon and nitrogen in the cyano group. However, it does not ionize in water.

Conclude the form in solution: In aqueous solution, acetonitrile exists entirely in molecular form, not as ions or a mixture of molecules and ions.

Summarize the findings: Acetonitrile, CH3CN, is classified as 'none of the above' and exists in aqueous solution entirely in molecular form.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Acids and Bases

Acids are substances that can donate protons (H+) in a solution, while bases can accept protons. The Brønsted-Lowry theory defines acids and bases based on proton transfer, whereas the Lewis theory defines them based on electron pair donation and acceptance. Understanding these definitions is crucial for classifying substances correctly.

Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Ionic compounds consist of charged ions and typically dissociate into their constituent ions in aqueous solution, while molecular compounds exist as discrete molecules. The behavior of a substance in solution—whether it exists as ions or molecules—affects its classification as an acid, base, or salt.

Solubility and Aqueous Solutions

Solubility refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in a solvent, such as water. In aqueous solutions, substances can exist in different forms: entirely as ions, entirely as molecules, or as a mixture. This distinction is important for determining the chemical behavior of the substance in solution.

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Textbook Question

Label each of the following substances as an acid, base, salt, or none of the above. Indicate whether the substance exists in aqueous solution entirely in molecular form, entirely as ions, or as a mixture of molecules and ions. (d) Ba1OH22.

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Textbook Question

State whether each of the following statements is true or false. Justify your answer in each case.

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