AP Chemistry Flashcards: Molecular Structure of Acids and Bases
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What two structural factors are mentioned as contributors to the stability of a conjugate base?
Electronegativity and resonance are two factors that stabilize a conjugate base, which in turn increases the strength of the corresponding acid.
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What two structural factors are mentioned as contributors to the stability of a conjugate base?
Electronegativity and resonance are two factors that stabilize a conjugate base, which in turn increases the strength of the corresponding acid.
What is the general relationship between the strength of an acid and the stability of its conjugate base?
Strong acids have very weak conjugate bases, which are stabilized by factors such as electronegativity or resonance.
Provide an example of a common weak base containing nitrogen.
Nitrogenous bases, such as ammonia (NH3), are common weak bases.
Identify a common class of weak acids mentioned in the text.
Carboxylic acids are a common class of weak acids.
What is the relationship between the strength of a base and its conjugate acid?
Strong bases, such as Group I and II hydroxides, have very weak conjugate acids.
How does the electronegativity of elements within a molecule affect its acid strength?
More electronegative elements tend to increase acid strength because they help stabilize the negative charge on the conjugate base.
What types of compounds are typically considered strong bases?
Group I and Group II hydroxides are common examples of strong bases.
What is a carboxylate ion?
A carboxylate ion is the conjugate base of a carboxylic acid and is considered a common weak base.
What two key properties of an acid or base can be inferred from its molecular structure?
The location of the acidic proton and the relative strength of the acid or base can be inferred from its molecular structure.
Why is an acid like H2SO4 considered strong based on its conjugate base?
Strong acids like H2SO4 have very weak conjugate bases (HSO4-) that are stabilized by factors such as resonance and electronegativity.