October 8 - Acid-Base Introduction

Question 1

Quick way to determine hybridization and exceptions

Answer 1

Assume all non-H atoms are sp3 hybridized. For each π bond the atom is involved in, remove one p

Exceptions: atoms without an octet or if there is a lone pair next to a pi bond (this means the lone pair turns into a p orbital for resonance)

Question 2

pKa value meaning

Answer 2

The pKa value measures the acid’s relative ability to KEEP its proton, so a high pKa means more basic

Question 3

Trick to remember the factors affecting basicity

Answer 3

CHESIR
C - charge
H - hybridization
E - electronegativity
S - size
I - induction
R - resonance