The question is incomplete; the complete question is;
For the following reaction:
H2CO3 + S2- ---------> HCO3- + HS-
The equilibrium constant is greater than one. The strongest acid in this system is ___________ and the weakest base is ____________.
A) H2CO3 and HS-
B) S2- and HS-
C) HCO3- and S2-
D) HS- and S2-
E) H2CO3 and HCO3-
Answer:
H2CO3 and HS-
Explanation:
According to the Brownstead- Lowry theory of acids and bases, an acid is a proton donor while a base is specie that accepts protons.
A strong acid has a greater tendency to donate protons. If we look at the reaction, H2CO3 has the greatest ability to donate protons hence it is the strongest acid.
On the other hand, HS- has the least ability to accept protons so it is the weakest base.
