Answer
🧪 Conjugate Base of CH₃CH₂OH
Question
Write the formula of the conjugate base of CH₃CH₂OH (ethanol).
Step-by-Step Explanation
CH₃CH₂OH is the chemical formula for ethanol, a molecule that can act as a weak acid by donating a proton (H⁺) from its –OH group.
What is a Conjugate Base?
- A conjugate base is formed when an acid loses a proton (H⁺).
- General formula:
HA → A⁻ + H⁺
For Ethanol:
CH₃CH₂OH → CH₃CH₂O⁻ + H⁺✅ Final Answer
CH₃CH₂O⁻ (ethoxide ion)
Summary Table
| Species | Description |
|---|---|
| CH₃CH₂OH | Ethanol (acts as acid) |
| H⁺ | Proton lost |
| CH₃CH₂O⁻ | Conjugate base (ethoxide ion) |
Key Concept Recap
- The conjugate base is formed by removing a proton (H⁺) from the acid.
- CH₃CH₂OH loses a proton to become CH₃CH₂O⁻.
- CH₃CH₂O⁻ is called the ethoxide ion.