Difference between revisions of "Conjugate base"
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
| − | + | When a molecule donates a proton, it is called the '''conjugate base''' of the original molecule. For example, NH<sub>3</sub> is the conjugate base of NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup>. 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. | |
==See Also== | ==See Also== | ||
Revision as of 14:43, August 3, 2009
When a molecule donates a proton, it is called the conjugate base of the original molecule. For example, NH3 is the conjugate base of NH4+. 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.