Question map
Which one among the following is the correct order of strenght of acids?
Explanation
The strength of an acid is determined by its ability to dissociate and produce hydrogen ions (H+) in solution [1]. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is classified as a strong mineral acid because its first dissociation is essentially complete, with a very high Ka value. Phosphorous acid (H3PO3), while not explicitly listed in all tables, is a moderately weak diprotic acid; however, it is significantly stronger than acetic acid (CH3COOH). Acetic acid is a well-known weak organic acid with a pKa of approximately 4.76, indicating very little dissociation in aqueous solution [1]. Therefore, the correct order of decreasing acid strength is H2SO4 (strongest) > H3PO3 (moderate/weak) > CH3COOH (weakest). This sequence aligns with the general principle that mineral acids are typically stronger than organic carboxylic acids [1].
Sources
- [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Acids, Bases and Salts > 2.3 HOW STRONG ARE ACID OR BASE SOLUTIONS? > p. 26