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Use the periodic table to answer the question.

An illustration shows the periodic table of elements with elements arranged in increasing order of atomic number in 18 columns (groups) and 7 rows (periods). The electronegativity of elements increases from left to right, across a period. The hydrogen on the left is included in group with medium electronegativity. Also, fluorine is shown as element with highest electronegativity.

Based on patterns in the periodic table, which list shows the acids in order from strongest to weakest?

(1 point)
Responses

HCl, PH3, H2S
HCl, PH 3 , H 2 S

HCl, H2S, PH3
HCl, H 2 S, PH 3

H2S, PH3, HCl
H 2 S, PH 3 , HCl

PH3, H2S, HCl

1 answer

To determine the order of acids from strongest to weakest based on the periodic trends of electronegativity and acid strength, we need to consider the nature of the acids in question.

  1. HCl (Hydrochloric acid): This is a strong acid. It completely dissociates in water and is known for its strength.

  2. H2S (Hydrosulfuric acid): This is a weak acid compared to HCl. It does not fully dissociate in water, making it less acidic.

  3. PH3 (Phosphine): This is not an acid in the same sense as the others; it's actually a neutral molecule. If considering it in terms of acidity, it would be the weakest compared to H2S and HCl.

Based on this information, the order from strongest to weakest acid is:

HCl > H2S > PH3

So, the correct response is:

HCl, H2S, PH3.