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QuestionChemistry

Is HBr classified as a strong acid, weak acid, strong base, or weak base? Explain.
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified formatting guidelines:

Step 2:
: Identify the Chemical Compound

HBr (hydrobromic acid) is a chemical compound composed of hydrogen and bromine.

Step 3:
: Determine Acid Strength

HBr \rightarrow H^{+} + Br^{-}
To classify HBr, we need to consider its dissociation in water:

Step 4:
: Analyze Dissociation Characteristics

HBr completely dissociates in water, meaning it ionizes 100% into its constituent ions. This is a key characteristic of strong acids.

Step 5:
: Compare to Acid Dissociation Constant (K_{a})

Strong acids have a very large acid dissociation constant ($$K_{a}$$), typically $$K_{a} > 1$$.
HBr has a K_{a} value much greater than 1, indicating complete dissociation.

Step 6:
: Classification

Because HBr completely dissociates in water, it is classified as a strong acid.

Final Answer

Key Characteristics: - Completely ionizes in water - K_{a} value much greater than 1 - Fully releases hydrogen ions (H^{+}) when dissolved