Why is ethanoic acid considered a weak acid?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: It ionises only partially in water
Ethanoic acid is a weak acid because only a fraction of its molecules ionise in water and an equilibrium is established: CH3COOH + H2O ⇌ CH3COO− + H3O+. Consequently, its hydronium-ion concentration is lower than that of a strong acid of the same concentration. Weak does not mean insoluble or harmless; ethanoic acid dissolves in water and remains an acid. Therefore option A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
It ionises only partially in water
Why is this the correct answer?
Ethanoic acid is a weak acid because only a fraction of its molecules ionise in water and an equilibrium is established: CH3COOH + H2O ⇌ CH3COO− + H3O+. Consequently, its hydronium-ion concentration is lower than that of a strong acid of the same concentration. Weak does not mean insoluble or harmless; ethanoic acid dissolves in water and remains an acid. Therefore option A is correct.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
Student feedback
Was this question useful?
👍 0 Helpful 👎 0 Not helpful
Yes 0% No 0%
0 responsesStudent Reviews
No published reviews yet.
