× Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask a question
Top Posters
Since Sunday
c
5
j
5
a
5
L
5
f
5
j
5
D
4
k
4
y
4
t
4
h
4
l
4
Home Q & A Board Science-Related Homework Help Chemistry (Moderator: Laser_3)
New Topic  
smokebomb13 smokebomb13
wrote...
Posts: 125
Rep: 1 0
11 years ago
In the equilibrium shown below, which maintains a steady blood pH, the strongest base present is:

H2CO3 + H2O <=> HCO3- + H3O+

A. H2O
B. H2CO3
C. HCO3-
D. H3O+
E. There are no bases in this equilibrium

Please explain how you got your answer. Any help is appreciated.
Read 198 times
2 Replies

Related Topics

Replies
wrote...
#1
11 years ago
In this equation, water acts as the base (it is the strongest base, too).

According the Brønsted?Lowry theory of acids and bases, an acid donates a proton and a base accepts a proton.  If you examine the equation you'll see that the carbonic acid loses a hydrogen ion while water gains the hydrogen ion to become the hydronium ion.
wrote...
#2
11 years ago
C. HCO3-
It is on the side of the reaction with the acid, so you know it is a base. You know H2O is neutral, so the thing with it is closer to neutral than the things on the other side of the arrows. Also, knowing that HCO3- is dissolved carbon dioxide in the blood that works as a buffer is useful in answering this.
New Topic      
Quick Reply
Explore
Post your homework questions and get free online help from our incredible volunteers
  855 People Browsing
Start New Topic Take the Tour CoursesNew Study Tools Topics Trending Browse by Textbook
Live Chat
Related Images
  
 1025
  
 75
  
 380
Your Opinion
What percentage of nature vs. nurture dictates human intelligence?
Votes: 432
Previous poll results: Should Ph.D.'s be addressed as doctors?