Question

Which is the strongest base that can exist in water?

• A. $N{H}_2^{-}$
• B. $H{O}^{-}$
• C. $N{H}_3$
• D. $C{H}_{3}C{H}_2^{-}$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $H{O}^{-}$

Both $N{H}_2^{-}$ and $C{H}_{3}C{H}_2^{-}$ are stronger base than $H{O}^{-}$ because O is more electroneagtive than N and C, so it will hold the negative charge more strongly. $N{H}_2^{-}$ and $C{H}_{3}C{H}_2^{-}$ will be neutralized quantitatively by water, therefore will not survive in water.

$N{H}_2^{-}+H_{2}O\to N{H}_3+H{O}^{-}C{H}_{3}C{H}_2^{-}+H_{2}O\to C{H}_{3}C{H}_3+H{O}^{-}$

Therefore, the strongest among given base that can survive in water without reacting is $H{O}^{-}$