The table below contains the pKa values of four weak acids. Which acid is the strongest?

HCHO2 3.77
H3BO3 9.23
HClO 7.46
H2CO3 6.37
Question 31 options:

H2CO3

HClO

HCHO2

H3BO3

1 answer

To determine which acid is the strongest among the ones listed, we look at the pKa values. The lower the pKa, the stronger the acid. Here are the provided pKa values for each acid:

  • HCHO2 (formic acid): pKa = 3.77
  • H3BO3 (boric acid): pKa = 9.23
  • HClO (hypochlorous acid): pKa = 7.46
  • H2CO3 (carbonic acid): pKa = 6.37

Comparing these values, the lowest pKa is for HCHO2, which has a pKa of 3.77.

Therefore, the strongest acid among the given options is:

HCHO2 (formic acid).