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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Binary Acids and Polyatomic Acids?

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The main difference between binary acids and polyatomic acids lies in the number of chemical elements they contain. Binary acids contain atoms from only two chemical elements, whereas polyatomic acids contain atoms from two or more different chemical elements. Here are some key differences between binary acids and polyatomic acids:

  • Composition: Binary acids consist of hydrogen and one other element, while polyatomic acids contain hydrogen, oxygen, and one or more other elements.
  • Conjugate Bases: Binary acids always form a monoatomic conjugate base, whereas polyatomic acids may form a monoatomic conjugate base or a polyatomic base.
  • Acid Strength: Binary acids are typically strong to moderately strong acids, while polyatomic acids can be strong, weak, or moderately acidic compounds.

Examples of binary acids include hydrofluoric acid (HF), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and hydrobromic acid (HBr). On the other hand, examples of polyatomic acids include carbonic acid (H2CO3), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and nitric acid (HNO3).

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  • What is the Difference Between Binary Acids and Polyatomic Acids?
  • Comparative Table: Binary Acids vs Polyatomic Acids

    • Comparative Table: Binary Acids vs Polyatomic Acids

    Here is a table comparing binary acids and polyatomic acids:

    Feature Binary Acids Polyatomic Acids
    Definition Binary acids contain atoms from only two different chemical elements. Polyatomic acids contain atoms from two or more different chemical elements.
    Examples Hydrofluoric acid (HF), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and hydrobromic acid (HBr). Sulfuric acid (H2SO4), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), and nitric acid (HNO3).
    Strength Binary acids are mostly strong to moderate acids. Polyatomic acids can be strong, moderate, or weak acids depending on the substance.
    Conjugate Bases Binary acids always form a monoatomic conjugate base. Polyatomic acids may form a monoatomic conjugate base or a polyatomic base.

    The key difference between binary acids and polyatomic acids is the number of different chemical elements they contain.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.