In the following reaction, HCO_3^- (aq) + H_2O(l) rightleftharpoons CO_3^2- (aq) + H_3O^+ (aq) H_3O^+ is an acid and HCO_3^- is its conjugate base. HCO_3^- is an acid and CO_3^2- is its conjugate base. HCO_3^- is an acid and H_2O is its conjugate base. H_2O is an acid and CO_3^2- is its conjugate base. H_3O^+ is an acid and CO_3^2- is its conjugate base.
Expert Answer
The reaction is:
HCO3–(aq) + H2O(l) CO32-(aq) + H3O+(aq)
In this reaction HCO3– releases H+ ion and changes to CO32-
Hence, HCO3– is an acid and CO32- is its conjugate base.