Semmelweis Chemistry Entrance Exam Practice 2025 - Complete Prep Guide

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What constitutes a conjugate acid-base pair?

Two species that differ in the number of neutrons

Two species that differ by the presence or absence of an electron

Two species that differ by the presence or absence of a proton (H⁺)

A conjugate acid-base pair consists of two species that differ by the presence or absence of a proton (H⁺). When an acid donates a proton, it forms its conjugate base, while the conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton. This relationship is fundamental in the Brønsted-Lowry theory of acids and bases, which describes acids as proton donors and bases as proton acceptors.

For example, when acetic acid (CH₃COOH) donates a proton, it becomes acetate ion (CH₃COO⁻), which is its conjugate base. Conversely, if the acetate ion accepts a proton, it reforms acetic acid. This proton transfer between the acid and its conjugate base defines the nature of the conjugate acid-base pair, making this concept essential for understanding acid-base chemistry.

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Two species that have identical molecular weights

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