Difference between revisions of "Conjugate acid"
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| − | When a | + | When a molecule receives a proton, it is called the '''conjugate acid''' of the original molecule. For example, NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> is the conjugate acid of NH<sub>3</sub>. NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> and NH<sub>3</sub> are a conjugate acid-base pair. One can be transformed into the other by undergoing a simple [[acid-base reaction]]. |
The conjugate acid acts as an acid, with a strength inversely proportional to the strength of its conjugate base. For example, since NH<sub>3</sub> is a weak base, NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> is a fairly strong acid. | The conjugate acid acts as an acid, with a strength inversely proportional to the strength of its conjugate base. For example, since NH<sub>3</sub> is a weak base, NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> is a fairly strong acid. | ||
Revision as of 14:41, August 3, 2009
When a molecule receives a proton, it is called the conjugate acid of the original molecule. For example, NH4+ is the conjugate acid of NH3. NH4+ and NH3 are a conjugate acid-base pair. One can be transformed into the other by undergoing a simple acid-base reaction.
The conjugate acid acts as an acid, with a strength inversely proportional to the strength of its conjugate base. For example, since NH3 is a weak base, NH4+ is a fairly strong acid.