Is CH3COO an acid or base?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether CH3COO, which refers to the acetate ion or acetic acid, acts as an acid or a base in a chemical context. It requires understanding the properties of this chemical compound.
Answer
Weak base
The final answer is that CH3COO- is a weak base.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that CH3COO- is a weak base.
More Information
CH3COO- is the conjugate base of acetic acid (CH3COOH), which is a weak acid. Thus, CH3COO- acts as a weak base.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume CH3COO- is a strong base because it is the conjugate of a weak acid. However, it remains a weak base, not a strong one due to this conjugate relationship.
Sources
- The web page with info on - Example Source - sydney.edu.au
- Why Cl־ is weak base whereas CH₃COO־ is strong base? - Reddit - reddit.com