Oxyacids

Concept #1: Oxyacids represent covalent compounds containing a hydrogen ion and an oxygen containing anion. 

Example #1: Which of the following represents the possible structure of an oxyacid?

a) NaNO₃                                  b) HCHO₂                                 c) KOH                                     d) HCN

Concept #2: The Oxygen Strength Rule is a convenient tool to help determine if an oxyacid is weak or strong. 

Example #2: Which of the following represents a strong oxyacid?

a) HNO₂                        b) HC₂H₃O₂                   c) HClO                         d) HSO₄^–                       e) HBrO₃

Concept #3: When comparing the strength of oxyacids the key is in comparing their number of oxygens. 

Example #3: Rank the following oxyacids in terms of increasing acidity. 

i. HClO₃                    ii. HBrO₄                                       iii. HBrO₃                                      iv. HClO₄                      v. HIO