Use the concept of electronegativity to justify why the acid strengths of ethanedioic acid and ethanoic acid are different. (6 marks)

Stage 1: 1-2 marksFirstly, draw and explain the difference in structures between the two acids.
Stage 2: 3-4 marksThe unionised COOH groups in the ethanedioc acid contain two very electronegative oxygen atoms. Therefore has a negative inductive effect, which means it is pulling electrons away from other atoms.The CH3 group in ethanoic acid has a positive inductive, meaning it pushes electrons away.
Stage 3: 5-6 marksDue to the negative inductive effect in ethanedioic acid, the O-H bond is more polarised. This means the hydrogen ion is more easily lost. Therefore there is more dissociation, which means it is a stronger acid.

Answered by Lima H. Chemistry tutor

5775 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does the mechanism for electrophilic addition work?


Devise a simple synthetic route to an amide from a carboxylic acid. Give a mechanism for the final step and explain why the reagents are not added 1:1 in the final step


Describe how you could distinguish between ethanol, ethanoic acid, ethyl bromide and 2-methylpropan-1-ol.


How do buffer solutions work and how do you calculate the pH of a buffer solution?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences