Question

Which of the following will behave as a strong acid in aqueous solution?

• A. ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_5\text{COOH}$
• B. ${\text{H}}_2{\text{SO}}_4$
• C. $\text{HCOOH}$
• D. ${\text{CH}}_3\text{COOH}$

Answer 1

The correct option is B ${\text{H}}_2{\text{SO}}_4$

A strong acid produces a large amount of ${\text{H}}^{+}\text{(aq)}$ ions in the aqueous solution.
${\text{H}}_2{\text{SO}}_4$ is a strong acid because it easily gives ${\text{H}}^{+}\text{(aq)}$ ions in water.

${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_5\text{COOH}$, $\text{HCOOH}$ and ${\text{CH}}_3\text{COOH}$ partially dissociate in water, i.e., release less amount of ${\text{H}}^{+}\text{(aq)}$ ions. Therefore, they are weak acids.