MadSci Network: Chemistry
Query:

Subject: Why is hydrofluoric acid a weak acid?

Date: Mon Dec 6 19:44:01 1999
Posted by Heather Moffat
Grade level: 10-12 School: Westdale
City: Hamilton State/Province: ON Country: Canada
Area of science: Chemistry
ID: 944531041.Ch
Message:

The other halogen acids are strong acids. I realize the bond strenth is weaker in these acids, however, if the electronegativity of fluorine is so high, why doesn't it simply take the electron from the hydrogen and ionize? I also recognize the high degree of hydrogen bonding in HF may be a factor. Also, if strong acids are already ionized, why would they cause burns on the skin (ie the energy has already been released and the acid is fully ionized before it hits the skin)? Hope you can help! Thanks


Re: Why is hydrofluoric acid a weak acid?

Current Queue | Current Queue for Chemistry | Chemistry archives

Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Chemistry.



MadSci Home | Information | Search | Random Knowledge Generator | MadSci Archives | Mad Library | MAD Labs | MAD FAQs | Ask a ? | Join Us! | Help Support MadSci


MadSci Network, webadmin@www.madsci.org
© 1995-1999. All rights reserved.