Question

what are the conjugate bases of h₂so₄ and hco₃⁻, respectively?
a) hso₄⁻, co₃²⁻
b) hso₄⁻, co₃⁻
c) so₄²⁻, co₃²⁻
d) hs₂o₄⁻, co₃²⁻

Explanation:

According to the Brønsted - Lowry acid - base theory, a conjugate base is formed when an acid donates a proton ($H^{+}$).
For $H_{2}SO_{4}$, when it donates one $H^{+}$, it forms $HSO_{4}^{-}$.
For $HCO_{3}^{-}$, when it donates one $H^{+}$, it forms $CO_{3}^{2 - }$.

Answer:

A. $HSO_{4}^{-}, CO_{3}^{2 - }$