Given the reaction $HF + H_2O ightleftharpoons H_3O^+ + F^-$, what is the conjugate base?
Understand the Problem
The question asks to identify the conjugate base in the given chemical reaction. In Bronsted-Lowry acid-base theory, a conjugate base is formed when an acid donates a proton (H+). By examining the reaction, we can determine which species is formed when the acid HF donates a proton.
Answer
The conjugate base is F-.
In the reaction $HF + H_2O \rightleftharpoons H_3O^+ + F^-$, the conjugate base is $F^-$.
Answer for screen readers
In the reaction $HF + H_2O \rightleftharpoons H_3O^+ + F^-$, the conjugate base is $F^-$.
More Information
A conjugate base is what is left after an acid has donated a proton during a chemical reaction. In this case, HF (hydrofluoric acid) donates a proton to H2O (water), resulting in F- (fluoride ion) which is the conjugate base.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing conjugate acids and bases. Remember, an acid donates a proton to form its conjugate base, and a base accepts a proton to form its conjugate acid.
Sources
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