Chapter 4.6: Molecular Structure and Acidity

Question 1

How does stability of the anion and equilibrium relate?

Answer 1

• Equilibrium favors the side with the more stable anion

Question 2

What is the polarization of the electron density of a covalent bond caused by the electronegativity of a nearby atom?

Answer 2

inductive effect

Question 3

Describe the relationship between stability of the anion and the strength of the acid

Answer 3

• The more stable the anion the greater the acidity of the acid, HA

Question 4

Describe the ways to stabilize the anion in order of decreasing stability

Answer 4

o Having the negative charge on a more electronegative atom
o Having the negative charge on a larger atom
o Delocalizing the negative charge as described by resonance contributing structures
o Spreading the negative charge onto electron-withdrawing groups by the inductive effect (polarization of sigma bonds)
o Having the negative charge in an orbital with more s character

Question 5

What is a zwitterion?

Answer 5

• When the same molecule has a positive and negative charge, it is called a zwitterion

Question 6

Define inductive effect

Answer 6

the polarization of the electron density of a covalent bond caused by the electronegativity of a nearby atom