Write a chemical equation for each that illustrates its reaction with water. Explain why they act as bases. Identify the conjugate acid in each of the reactions.

Question

Write a chemical equation for each that illustrates its reaction with water. Explain why they act as bases. Identify the conjugate acid in each of the reactions.

1. cyanide ion, CN^–

Answer 1

CN^- + H₂O ==> HCN + OH^-

CN^- acts as a base because it accepts H⁺ from HCN (a weak acid)

The conjugate acid in this reaction is HCN and the conjugate base is OH^-