basicity question

[klee92181]

Hi,

What is the order of basicity for common ions on the MCAT? (ie. OH, OR, etc)

For acid/base solubility, does the same general rule apply, "like dissolves like", so acid only dissolves in acids and bases dissolves in bases? Is an acid and base reacting with each other (neutralization) considered acid and base dissolving each other?

Thanks!

Kenneth

[admin]

Like dissolves like refers to the fact that fats dissolve easier in fats, ions in ions, etc. Strong acids and bases are both ionic and therefore they can dissolve in one another.

Strong bases in general chemistry involve any hydroxide of a group 1A metal. The most common weak bases in the MCAT are ammonia and any organic amine. The MCAT will not split hairs on basicity in general chemistry unless the information is provided in the passage.

[klee92181]

Are alcohols considered a weak base? (ex. CH3OH)

[admin]

Alcohols are considered to be weak acids with a Ka value of approx. 10^-18 (thus weaker than water). Acidity of alcohols decreases with increasing number of attached carbons.

Incidentally, we don't usually answer questions in the science threads coming from students not registered in one of our science programs (MCAT Crash Course, MCAT University or the Platinum Program: www.mcat-prep.com).

You may want to consider an MCAT science review book like The Gold Standard: www.mcat-bookstore.com

Good luck with your studies.

[klee92181]

Thank you admin!