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Define a conjugate pair according to the Brønsted-Lowry theory. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question e - 2009
Question e
Define a conjugate pair according to the Brønsted-Lowry theory.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Define a conjugate pair according to the Brønsted-Lowry theory. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question e - 2009
Step 1
Conjugate Pair Definition
Answer
In the Brønsted-Lowry theory, a conjugate pair consists of two species that differ by the presence of a proton (H⁺).
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Acid and Conjugate Base: An acid is a substance that donates a proton (H⁺) to form its conjugate base. This process can be represented as:
[ HA \rightleftharpoons A^- + H^+ ]
where (HA) is the acid and (A^-) is its conjugate base.
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Base and Conjugate Acid: A base is a substance that accepts a proton (H⁺) to form its conjugate acid. This can be symbolized as:
[ B + H^+ \rightleftharpoons BH^+ ]
where (B) is the base and (BH^+) is its conjugate acid.
In summary, the conjugate pair is formed when an acid and its conjugate base or a base and its conjugate acid are related through the transfer of protons.