HSC

COURSE Student Name

2021

Chemistry
Acid/Base Reactions
Module Exam

Marking Guidelines
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Section I
Multiple-choice Answer Key

Question Answer
1 D
2 B
3 D
4 A
5 D
6 D
7 C
8 A
9 C
10 C
11 B
12 D
13 A
14 A
15 C

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

1 credit: 2021 Baulkham Hills Topic Test Mod 6 Q1

Which pair of compounds represent an acid and its conjugate base?

Acid Conjugate base

A. HSO4- H2SO4
B. CH3CO- CH3COOH
C. CH3NH2 CH3NH3+
D. HCrO4- CrO42-

Correct Option: D

According to BL theory, acids donates a proton to form a conjugate base. In options A,

B and C, the acid and conjugate base pair is flipped and therefore incorrect.

2 credit: Baulkham Hills Topic Test Mod 6 Q2

Three solutions have been prepared.

Solution Concentration (mol L-1) Formula

P 0.05 Na2CO3
Q 0.005 NaOH
R 0.1 NH3

Which statement is correct?

A. P is a weak acid and more dilute than R

B. P is a weak base and more dilute than R
C. R is a weak base and more dilute than Q
D. Q is a strong base and more concentrated than P

Correct Option: B

Sodium carbonate, Na2CO3, is a weak base. It has a concentration of 0.05 mol L-1 which
is more dilute than solution R with a concentration of 0.1 mol L-1. Hence, B is correct.

−2−
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

3 credit: 2019 CSSA HSC Trials Q14

Which of the following substances is an amphiprotic salt?

A. sodium carbonate
B. sodium chloride
C. sodium hydroxide
D. sodium hydrogen phosphate

Correct Option: D

Amphiprotic salts are able to donate and accept protons – that is, they can behave as
Bronsted-Lowry acids or bases. Sodium hydrogen phosphate is amphiprotic.

H2PO4-(aq) + H3O+(aq) ⇌ H3PO4(aq) + H2O(l)

H2PO4-(aq) + OH-(aq) ⇌ HPO42-(aq) + H2O(l)

4 credit: 2019 Girraween HSC Trials Q4

Bromothymol blue is an acid-base indicator which can be used to test the pH of

swimming pools and fish tanks.

It changes from yellow to blue across a pH range of 6.0 – 7.5.

Which alternative matches the solutions shown with the correct indicator colour?

SO2(aq) NH3(aq) NaCl(aq) Na2CO3(aq)

A. Yellow Blue Green Blue
B. Blue Blue Green Yellow
C. Green Yellow Blue Green
D. Blue Green Blue Yellow

Correct Option: A

Non-metal oxides are acidic, so SO2 will turn the indicator yellow.
Ammonia is a weak base, to it will turn the indicator blue.
By method of elimination, only option A is correct.
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

5 credit: 2019 Auburn Girls HSC Trials Q11

The indicator HIn/In- is used in a titration between nitric acid and barium hydroxide
solutions.

The following equation represents how the indicator works.

HIn ⇌ H+ + In-
(green) (purple)

The indicator is added to 20 mL of the barium hydroxide solution in a conical flask and
the nitric acid is added via a burette until the endpoint is reached. The nitric acid and
barium hydroxide solutions are of similar concentrations and the flask is swirled
continuously as the acid is added.

Which one of the following statements describes the expected observations for the
colour of the solution in the conical flask?

A. It starts green and turns purple after adding approximately 10 mL of HNO3.

B. It starts green and turns purple after adding approximately 40 mL of HNO3.
C. It starts purple and turns green after adding approximately 10 mL of HNO3.
D. It starts purple and turns green after adding approximately 40 mL of HNO3.

Correct Option: D

Initially, 20 mL of Ba(OH)2 is in the conical flask. It is a strong base so it will react with
the H+ from the indicator pushing the equilibrium to the right. Hence, there will be a
high [In-] and the solution is initially purple.

As the nitric acid is added, it will neutralise the OH- ions from the barium hydroxide.

Ba(OH)2(aq) + 2HNO3(aq) → Ba(NO3)2(aq) + 2H2O(l)

As the acid and base are of similar concentrations, equivalence point is reached when 40
mL of nitric acid is added, due to the 1:2 mole ratio, causing the indicator to change
colours and turn green.

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

6 credit: 2019 Normanhurst HSC Trials Q20 MODIFIED

Acetic acid, CH3COOH, has a Ka = 1.8 × 10-5. What mass of acetic acid should be used
to form 2.5 L of a solution with a pH of 5.50?

A. 1.1 × 10-1 g
B. 4.8 × 10-4 g
C. 1.9 × 10-4 g
D. 8.3 × 10-5 g

Correct Option: D

pH = -log10[H+]
[H+] = 10-pH
= 10-5.50

CH3COOH(aq) ⇌ CH3COO-(aq) + H+(aq)

CH3COOH CH3COO- H+
Initial y 0 0
Change -x +x +x
Equilibrium y–x≈y x x

Equilibrium concentration of CH3COOH is approximately the same as initial

concentration due to low degree of ionisation as Ka < 10-3.

[CH3 COO- ][H+ ]

Ka = [CH3 COOH]
2
(10-5.50 )
-5
1.8 × 10 =
[CH3 COOH]
[CH3 COOH] = 5.55… × 10-7 M

n(CH3 COOH) = c × v = (5.55… × 10-7 )(2.5)

= 1.38… × 10-6

m(CH3 COOH) = n × MM
= (1.38 × 10-6 )[2(12.01) + 4(1.008) + 2(16.00)]
= 8.3 × 10-5 g (2 sf)
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

7 credit: 2020 Strathfield Girls HSC Trials Q19

The graph shows changes in pH during the titrations of equal volumes of two
monoprotic acids, Acid 1, and Acid 2.

Which of the following statements is correct?

A. Acid 1 is stronger and more concentrated than Acid 2

B. Acid 2 is stronger and more concentrated than Acid 1
C. Acid 1 is stronger and less concentrated than Acid 2
D. Acid 2 is stronger and less concentrated than Acid 1

Correct Option: C

The initial pH of Acid 1 is lower; hence it is stronger than Acid 2.

As KOH is a strong base, it will completely neutralise the acid with stoichiometric
equivalence of H+ and OH-.

Comparing the equivalence point of Acid 1 and 2, Acid 2 requires a greater volume of
KOH, suggesting a higher [H+]. Hence, it is more concentrated.

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

8 credit: 2020 James Ruse HSC Trials Q20

Which of the following combinations will produce the solution with the greatest
temperature change?

Acid Base
A. 100 mL 0.1 mol L-1 H2SO4 50 mL 0.4 mol L-1 KOH
B. 50 mL 0.05 mol L-1 HNO3 100 mL 0.4 mol L-1 NaOH
C. 50 mL 0.2 mol L-1 HCl 100 mL of 0.025 mol L-1 Ba(OH)2
D. 200 mL 0.05 mol L-1 CH3COOH 50 mL 0.4 mol L-1 NaOH

Correct Option: A

Neutralisation reaction between a strong acid and base is exothermic.

H+(aq) + OH-(aq) → H2O(l), ΔH = -57 kJ/mol

Option A:
n(H+) = 2 × n(H2SO4) = 2 × 0.1 × 0.1 = 0.02 moles
n(OH-) = n(KOH) = 0.4 × 0.05 = 0.02 moles

For option D, the number of moles of H+ and OH- is identical as that of A. However,
CH3COOH is a weak acid which means it has a low degree of ionisation. As such, more
energy is required to remove H+ in the neutralisation reaction so it is slightly less
exothermic. Hence, A will result in a greater temperature change than D.

Option B:
n(H+) = n(HNO3) = 0.05 × 0.05 = 0.0025 moles
n(OH-) = n(NaOH) = 0.4 × 0.1 = 0.04 moles
HNO3 is the limiting reagent so only 0.0025 moles of water is produced which is
significantly less than the 0.02 moles from option A so it results in less of a temperature
change.

Option C:
n(H+) = n(HCl) = 0.2 × 0.05 = 0.01 moles
n(OH-) = 2 × n(Ba(OH)2) = 2 × 0.025 × 0.1 = 0.005 moles
Only 0.01 moles of water is produced, which is less than option A.
−7−
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

9 Benzoic acid (C6H5COOH) is a weak monoprotic acid that can be used as a primary
standard for titrations. A 0.15 mol L-1 solution of benzoic acid has a pH of 2.51

What is the pKb of the benzoate (C6H5COO-) ion?

A. 3.60
B. 4.19
C. 9.81
D. 10.40

Correct Option: C

C6H5COOH(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ C6H5OO-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

pH = -log10[H+]
[H+] = 10-pH = 10-2.51

2
[C6 H5 COO- ][H3 O+ ] (10-2.51 )
Ka = [C6 H5 COOH]
=
0.15

pKa = -log10(Ka) = 4.196...

pKa + pKb = 14 (assuming 25oC)
pKb = 9.8

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

10 credit: 2012 HSC Exam Q18

Which of the following changes take place when 50 mL of water is added to 50 mL of

0.1 mol L-1 acetic acid?

pH Degree of ionisation
A. Increase Decrease
B. Decrease Increase
C. Increase Increase
D. Decrease Decrease

Correct Option: C

Acetic acid is a weak acid which exists in a dynamic equilibrium with its conjugate
base, acetate ion.

CH3COOH(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ CH3COO-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

Dilution of a weak acid will decrease [H3O+], hence the equilibrium will shift to the
right as per Le Chatelier’s principle, to minimise the disturbance.

This means the degree of ionisation of acetic acid increases. However, the dilution has
a greater effect on [H3O+] than the increases dissociation. As such, a lower [H3O+]
results in a higher pH.

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

11 credit: 1995 HSC Exam Q10

Two titrations are carried out as shown below.

Which of the following statements is true?

A. The volume of base required to reach the equivalence point will depend upon the
particular acid used.
B. The weak acid will require the same amount of base as the strong acid to reach
the equivalence point.
C. The weak acid will require less base than the strong acid to reach the equivalence
point.
D. The weak acid will require more base than the strong acid to reach the
equivalence point.

Correct Option: B

As the acid is titrated with a strong base, the neutralisation reaction will go to
completion irrespective of the strength of the acid. As the two acids have equal volume
and concentrations, then the volume of base required to reach the equivalence point is
the same.
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

12 credit: 2020 PEM HSC Trials Q20

Which titration curve best represents the change in pH as 0.100 M NaOH solution is
added to a 10.0 mL aliquot of 0.100 M HCl solution?

A. B.

C. D.

Correct Option: D

The pH initially is very low due to the presence of the strong acid, HCl, in the conical
flask. As the strong base, NaOH, is added, it will neutralise the HCl so the pH
increases.

At equivalence point, the pH is neutral due to the presence of a neutral salt, NaCl.
When excess base is added beyond the equivalence point, the pH will be very high due
to the complete dissociation of the strong base.

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

13 credit: 2019 QATS HSC Trials Q14

Which graph represents the electrical conductivity changes that occur when an aqueous
solution of acetic acid is titrated with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide, NaOH?

A. B.

C. D.

Correct Option: A

Initially, the conductivity is very low due to the partial ionisation of the weak acid,
CH3COOH.

When NaOH is added, the formation of a strong electrolyte, CH3COONa, will increase
conductance. Beyond the equivalence point, excess NaOH will result in a significant
rise in conductance (steeper curve) due to the dissociatoin of the strong base, releasing
highly mobile OH- ions.

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

14 credit: 2003 HSC Exam Q8

The hydrogen carbonate ion (HCO3-) is amphiprotic. Which statement is correct?

A. HCO3- is the conjugate base of CO32-

B. H2CO3 is the conjugate acid of CO32-
C. CO32- is the conjugate base of H2CO3
D. H2CO3 is the conjugate acid of HCO3-

Correct Option: A

HCO3- is amphiprotic. This means that it can act as a proton donor to form a conjugate
base, or proton acceptor to form a conjugate acid.

The conjugate base of HCO3- is CO32-. Hence A is the correct option.

− 13 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

15 credit: 2006 HSC Exam Q10

Phosphorus pentoxide reacts with water to form phosphoric acid according to the
following equation.

P2O5(s) + 3H2O(l) → 2H3PO4(aq)

Phosphoric acid reacts with sodium hydroxide according to the following equation.

H3PO4(aq) + 3NaOH(aq) → Na3PO4(aq) + 3H2O(l)

A student reacted 1.42 g of phosphorus pentoxide with excess water. What volume of
0.30 mol L-1 sodium hydroxide would be required to neutralise all the phosphoric acid
produced?

A. 0.0067 L
B. 0.10 L
C. 0.20 L
D. 5.0 L

Correct Option: C

m 1.42
n(P2O5) = = = 0.0100…moles
MM 2(30.97) + 5(16.00)

n(H3PO4) = 2 × n(P2O5) due to 1:2 mole ratio

= 0.02000… moles

n(NaOH) = 3 × n(H3PO4) due to 1:3 mole ratio

= 0.060025… moles

n 0.060025…
v= = = 0.20008… = 0.20 L (2 sf)
c 0.30

− 14 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 16 (6 marks)

credit: 2020 Sydney Boys HSC Trials Q31

A class was set the task of conducting a chemical analysis of a common household
substance for its acidity and basicity.

Describe TWO different methods of how this analysis could be conducted. In your
response, include any advantages and disadvantages of the methods. 6

Marking Criteria Marks

Outlines ONE method of analysis and includes advantage and disadvantage 3

Sample Answer
The sample must be in aqueous solution. If supplied as a solid, it must be mixed with
distilled/deionised water.

One method is to use indicators. Indicators are chemicals that change colour over a
specific pH range to help identify if a substance is acidic, neutral, or basic.

For example, Litmus paper.

Place a small amount (about 5mL) of the substance (solution) in a clean test tube and
place a small piece of red and blue litmus paper. Observe and record colour change. If
the blue litmus changes pink, then the substance in acidic, and if the pink changes to
blue, the substance is basic. If no colour change is observed, then the substance is
neutral.

The advantage of using indicators is that they are relatively cheap and easy to use. A
disadvantage is that one must use an indicator with a colour change that matches the
actual pH of the substance. If the substance being tested is itself coloured, this can
obscure the result. The strength of the acid or base cannot be determined with
LITMUS.

Sample answer continues on page 15

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

The second method is to use electronic means such as pH metres, a pH probe, or data
loggers.

Firstly the probe must be calibrated using the buffer solutions provided to the specified
pH values given. Place a small amount (about 20mL) of the substance (solution) in a
clean small beaker. Then place the pH probe into the sample and record the pH value
displayed.

If the pH value is = 7, then the substance is neutral, if pH > 7, then the substance is
basic and if pH < 7, the substance is acidic.

The advantage of using pH probe is that it is much more accurate and works over a
larger pH range. A disadvantage is that they are more costly and more complex to
operate. They have to be calibrated (set to an accurate value) using buffer solutions of
known pH.

− 16 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 17 (4 marks)

credit: 2020 HSC Exam Q27 MODIFIED

A student makes up a solution of propan-2-amine in water with a concentration of

1.00 mol L-1.

The structural formula for propan-2-amine is shown below. It is produced from the
reaction between a hydrocarbon and ammonia.

H H
H N H

H C C C H
H H H

(a) Write an equation for the reaction of propan-2-amine with water. 1

Marking Criteria Marks

Provides equation for the reaction of propan-2-amine with water 1

Sample Answer
C3H7NH2(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ C3H7NH3+(aq) + OH-(aq)

− 17 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(b) The equilibrium constant for the reaction of propan-2-amine with water is 3
4.37 × 10-4.

Calculate the concentration of hydroxide ions in this solution.

Marking Criteria Marks

Writes equilibrium expression for base dissociation constant, Kb 1
Addresses assumption that x << 1.00 1
Calculates the concentration of hydroxide ions 1

Sample Answer
C3H7NH2(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ C3H7NH3+(aq) + OH-(aq)

C3H7NH2 C3H7NH3+ OH-

Initial 1.00 0 0
Change -x +x +x
Equilibrium 1.00 – x x x

[C3 H7 NH+3 ][OH- ]

Kb =
[C3 H7 NH2 ]
x2
=
1.00 - x

Given that Kb is less than 10-3, it can be assumed that x << 1.00. Hence,
1.00 – x ≈ 1.00.

x2
-4
4.37×10 =
1.00
x = √4.37 × 10-4
= 0.0207 mol L-1
= [OH- ]

− 18 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 18 (8 marks)

credit: 2019 Normanhurst HSC Trials Q24

(a) Calculate the pH of 0.20 M HNO2 (pKa = 3.14). 2

Marking Criteria Marks

Calculates [H+] 1
Calculates pH 1

Sample Answer
Nitrous acid, HNO2, is a weak acid.

HNO2(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ NO2-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

HNO2 NO2- H3O+

Initial 0.20 0 0
Change -x +x +x
Equilibrium 0.20 – x x x

pKa = -log10(Ka)
Ka = 10-3.14 = 7.24... × 10-4

As Ka < 10-3 then x << 0.20. Hence, it can be assumed that 0.20 – x ≈ 0.20.

[NO-2 ][H3 O+ ]
Ka =
[HNO2 ]
x2
7.24… × 10-4 =
0.20
x = 0.012036…
= [H+ ]

pH = -log10[H+]
= 1.919485...
= 1.92 (2 sf)

− 19 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(b) The pH of a 0.10 M HCN solution is 4.12. 2

Compare the strength of HCN and HNO2.

Marking Criteria Marks

Calculates the Ka / pKa of HCN 1
Correctly identifies HCN as the weaker acid 1

Sample Answer
The pH of an acidic solution is affected by both the concentration and strength of
the acid. As the two acids, HCN and HNO2, do not have the same concentration,
simply comparing pH is an invalid determinant of relative strength. Instead, the
pKa / Ka value must be calculated for comparison.

HCN(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ CN-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

pH = -log10[H+] = 4.12
[H+] = 7.5857... × 10-5

HCN CN- H3O+

Initial 0.10 0 0
Change -7.5... × 10-5 +7.5... × 10-5 +7.5... × 10-5
Equilibrium 0.0999... 7.5... × 10-5 7.5... × 10-5

[CN- ][H3 O+ ]
Ka =
[HCN]
2
(7.5… × 10-5 )
=
0.0999…
= 5.758… × 10-8

pKa = - log10 (Ka )

= 7.24

As the pKa of HCN is larger than HNO2, it is a weaker acid.

− 20 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(c) Calculate the pH of the solution resulting when 85 mL of the 0.20 M HNO2 is 4
combined with 75 mL of 0.12 M Mg(OH)2.

Marking Criteria Marks

Determines limiting reagent 2
-
Calculates [OH ] 1
Calculates pH 1

Sample Answer
Calculate the number of moles of the acid and base to determine the limiting
reagent (if any).

n(HNO2) = c × v = (0.20)(0.085) = 0.017 moles

n(Mg(OH)2) = c × v = (0.12)(0.075) = 0.009 moles

2HNO2(aq) + Mg(OH)2(aq) → Mg(NO2)2(aq) + 2H2O(l)

Due to the 2:1 mole ratio between HNO2 and Mg(OH)2, the number of moles of
HNO2 required to completely react with all the Mg(OH)2 is 2 × 0.009 = 0.018
moles. Hence, HNO2 is the limiting reagent.

n(Mg(OH)2)excess = n(Mg(OH)2)initial - n(Mg(OH)2)reacted

= 0.009 – (0.017 × 0.5)
= 0.0005 moles

n(OH-) = 2 × n(Mg(OH)2) as there are 2 moles of OH- per mole of Mg(OH)2.

= 2 × 0.005
= 0.001 moles

n 0.001
[OH- ] = = = 0.00625 mol L-1
v 0.085 + 0.075

pOH = -log10[OH-]
= -log10(0.00625)
= 2.204...

pH + pOH = 14
pH = 11.79588... = 11.80 (2 sf)
− 21 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 19 (5 marks)

credit: NESA Sample Additional Questions Mod 6 Q12

(a) The pH of a 0.30 M aqueous propanoic acid solution was measured to be 2.7. The 2
dissociation of propanoic acid is represented below.

CH3CH2COOH(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ CH3CH2COO-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

Calculate the Ka of the solution.

Marking Criteria Marks

+
Calculates H 1
Calculates Ka 1

Sample Answer
pH = -log10[H+]
[H+] = 10-pH = 10-2.7 = 1.995 × 10-3 mol L-1

CH3CH2COOH CH3CH2COO- H3O+

Initial 0.30 0 0
Change -x +x +x
Equilibrium 0.30 – x x x

x = [H3O+] = [H+] = 1.995 × 10-3 mol L-1

[H3 O+ ][CH3 CH2 COO- ]

Ka =
[CH3 CH2 COOH]
2
(1.995 × 10-3 )
=
0.30 - (1.995 × 10-3 )
= 1.3 × 10-5

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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(b) Explain how the pH of the propanoic acid solution would change if it was diluted. 3

Marking Criteria Marks

Explains the effect of dilution on degree of ionisation 1
Identifies increase in ionisation as insufficient to counter ↓ [H+] 1
Identifies increase in pH 1

Sample Answer
Propanoic acid is a weak acid and thus will only partially ionise in solution.

CH3CH2COOH(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ CH3CH2COO-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

When the acid is diluted, the concentration of all species (including the
hydronium ion) decreases. However, the effect of the decreasing concentrations
of dissolved species causes the equilibrium to shift to the right (according to Le
Chatelier’s Principle).

While there is an increase in ionisation, this is not sufficient to counter the

decrease in hydronium ion concentration caused by the addition of water
(dilution effect). The net effect is the hydronium ion concentration decreases and
the pH increases.

− 23 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 20 (5 marks)

credit: 2019 HSC Exam Q28

Assess the usefulness of the Bronsted-Lowry model in classifying acids and bases.
Support your answer with at least TWO chemical equations. 5

Marking Criteria Marks

Makes an informed judgement about the usefulness fo the B-L model 2
Considers an advantage and limitation of the model 2
Includes at least TWO relevant equations 1

Sample Answer
The Brønsted–Lowry model describes acids as proton donors and bases as proton
acceptors.

Brønsted–Lowry acid dissociation in water:

HCl(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ Cl-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

Brønsted–Lowry base dissociation in water:

NH3(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ NH4+(aq) + OH-(aq)

It was an improvement on the Arrhenius theory as it describes more acid and base
behaviour. For example, in the reaction NH3(g) + HCl(g) → NH4Cl(s), ammonia is
classified as a Brønsted–Lowry base and hydrogen chloride as a Brønsted–Lowry acid,
as a proton has been transferred from the hydrogen chloride to the ammonia. Ammonia
is not an Arrhenius base as it does not dissociate to form OH- ions. The above reaction
is also not classified as a neutralisation reaction according to Arrhenius theory as it
does not occur in an aqueous system.

However, the Brønsted–Lowry model does not explain the acidity of acidic oxides such
as SO2 and SO3 and their reaction with basic oxides such as CaO. For example, in the
reaction CaO(s) + SO3(g) → CaSO4(s) there is no proton transfer, so Brønsted–Lowry
theory cannot be used to explain this as an acid–base reaction.

The Brønsted–Lowry model is useful to explain many acid–base reactions but has its
limitations.

− 24 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 21 (5 marks)

credit: 2020 PEM HSC Trials Q27

H2SO4 is a polyprotic acid. The deprotonation of HSO4- has a Ka of 0.011.

What is the pH of a 0.089 mol L-1 solution of sulfuric acid? 5

Marking Criteria Marks

+ st nd
Calculates [H3O ] from 1 and 2 step of dissociation 4
Calculates total [H3O+] and hence pH 1

Sample Answer
H2SO4 is a diprotic acid.

To determine the pH of the solution of sulfuric acid, the [H+] for each step of
dissociation must be considered separately and summed.

H2SO4(aq) + H2O(l) → HSO4-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

As H2SO4 is a strong acid, it will completely dissociate in water.
[H3O+] = [H2SO4] = 0.089 mol L-1

HSO4-(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ SO42-(aq) + H3O+(aq)

As HSO4- is a weak base, it will partially dissociate in water and form an equilibrium.

HSO4- SO42- H3O+

Initial 0.089 0 0
Change -x +x +x
Equilibrium 0.089 – x x x

[SO2- +
4 ][H3 O ] x2
Ka = =
[HSO-4 ] 0.089 - x

Sample answer continues on page 25

− 25 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

However, as Ka is low, x << 0.089. Hence, 0.089 – x ≈ 0.089.

x2
0.011 =
0.089
x = 3.1288… × 10-3 = [H3 O+ ]

Total [H3O+] = 0.089 + (3.128… × 10-3)

= 0.120288... mol L-1

pH = -log10[H3O+]
= -log10(0.12...)
= 0.91977...
= 0.92 (2 sf)

− 26 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 22 (3 marks)

credit: 2004 HSC Exam Q24 (a) & (c)

The diagram shows three reagent bottles containing acids.

(a) Calculate the pH after 10.0 mL of 0.01 mol L-1 hydrochloric acid solution is diluted 1
by the addition of 90.0 mL of distilled water.

Marking Criteria Marks

Calculates pH of the diluted HCl acid solution 1

Sample Answer
Use dilution formula to calculate new concentration of HCl:

C1V1 = C2V2
(0.01)(0.01) = C2(0.01 + 0.09)
C2 = 0.001 mol L-1

HCl is a strong, monoprotic acid.

HCl(aq) → H+(aq) + Cl-(aq)

Hence, [H+] = [HCl] = 0.001 mol L-1

pH = -log10[H+] = -log10(0.001) = 3.0 (1 sf)

− 27 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(b) Explain the difference in pH between the three acids in the diagram. 2

Marking Criteria Marks

+
Relates pH to [H ] 1
Explains difference in pH due to varying degree of ionisations 1

Sample Answer
The difference in pH between the three acid solutions is due to a difference in
[H+] which relates to their varying strengths (degree of ionisation) since they
have identical concentrations.

HCl has the lowest pH of 2.00 as it is a strong, monoprotic acid that completely
dissociates to release H+ ions.

Both acetic acid and citric acid are weak acids and will only partially dissociate
in water. Citric acid has a lower pH of 2.56 compared to acetic acid with a pH of
3.38, hence its degree of ionisation is greater. That is, acetic acid is a strong acid
than acetic acid.

*Note, it is incorrect to explain the lower pH of citric acid because of its triprotic
nature, compared to the monoprotic nature of acetic acid.

H3Cit → H+ + H2Cit- Ka1 = 7.41 × 10-4

H2Cit- → H+ + HCit2- Ka2 = 1.74 × 10-5
HCit2- → H+ + Cit3- Ka3 = 3.98 × 10-7

Notice that the Ka1 and Ka2 are very low and thus insignificant in their
contribution to H+ and hence the pH of the citric acid solution. As such, the
lower pH of citric acid compared to acetic acid is because it is a stronger acid
with a greater degree of ionisation.

− 28 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 23 (5 marks)

credit: 2014 James Ruse Half Yearly Q11

Sodium hydrogen carbonate is a chemical substance with many uses due to its
amphiprotic properties.

(a) Define the term amphiprotic and use ionic equations to illustrate the amphiprotic 3
nature of sodium hydrogen carbonate.

Marking Criteria Marks

Defines the term amphiprotic 1
Provides TWO ionic equations to show amphiprotic nature 2

Sample Answer
Amphiprotic substances are substances that can behave as proton donors or
acceptors. That is, they can act as a Bronsted-Lowry acid or base.

As a base in acid medium:

HCO3-(aq) + H3O+(aq) ⇌ H2CO3(aq) + H2O(l)

As an acid in basic medium:

HCO3-(aq) + OH-(aq) ⇌ CO32-(aq) + H2O(l)

(b) Describe a practical use of sodium hydrogen carbonate which is due to its 2
amphiprotic property.

Marking Criteria Marks

Identifies a practical use of sodium hydrogen carbonate 1
Detailed explanation of how it works 1

Sample Answer
As an amphiprotic substance, sodium hydrogen carbonate is useful as a
neutralizer in both acidic and basic chemical spill. It is a weak acid and a weak
base and hence an excess of the substance will harm neither the experimenter nor
the environment.

− 29 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 24 (9 marks)

credit: 2019 QATS HSC Trials Q28

To determine the percentage by mass of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in an antacid tablet

which had a mass of 0.250 g, the following procedure was used:

• The tablet was crushed and then placed in a beaker.

• A pipette was used to add 25.0 mL of 0.120 mol L-1 hydrochloric acid to the crushed
tablet in the beaker.

• Once the reaction between the calcium carbonate and hydrochloric acid had stopped,
phenolphthalein indicator was added to the reaction mixture.

• A burette was then used to add 0.0560 mol L-1 sodium hydroxide to the beaker to
neutralise the excess hydrochloric acid.

• The phenolphthalein changed from colourless to pink after 27.4 mL of the sodium
hydroxide solution had been added.

(a) Write a balanced equation for the reaction between calcium carbonate and 1
hydrochloric acid.

Marking Criteria Marks

Provides a balanced equation, with states included 1

Sample Answer
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) → CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

− 30 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(b) Determine the percentage by mass of calcium carbonate in the tablet. Show all 4
working and reasoning.

Marking Criteria Marks

Calculates n(HCl)excess from back titration 1
Calculates n(HCl)reacted 1
Calculates n(CaCO3) 1
Calculates composition %(w/w) of calcium carbonate in the tablet 1

Sample Answer
Back titration was used to determine the number of moles of excess HCl using
standardised NaOH.

HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaCl(aq) + H2O(l)

n(NaOH) = c × v = (0.0560)(0.0274) = 0.0015344 moles

n(HCl)excess = n(NaOH) due to 1:1 mole ratio
n(HCl)excess = 0.0015344 moles

n(HCl)reacted = n(HCl)initial – n(HCl)excess

= (0.120)(0.025) – 0.0015344
= 0.0014656 moles

CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) → CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

n(CaCO3) = 0.5 × n(HCl)reacted due to 1:2 mole ratio.

n(CaCO3) = 0.0007238 moles
m(CaCO3) = n × MM = (0.007238)[40.08 + 12.01 + 3(16.00)] = 0.0733... g

m(CaCO3 ) 0.0733…
% (w/w) = × 100% = × 100% = 29.3% (3 sf)
m(tablet) 0.250

− 31 −
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any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(c) Explain the purpose of the indicator used in this experiment. 2

Marking Criteria Marks

Identifies use of indicator to determine end point 1
Relates end point to finding the value of the titre 1

Sample Answer
Indicator is used to determine the end point of the back titration as it changes in
colour (for > 10 s) from colourless to pink.

At this point, no more NaOH is discharged from the burette, and reading the
burette can then determine the titre (27.4 mL).

− 32 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

(d) Justify the use of phenolphthalein (rather than other indicators) for this titration, 2
even though it changes colour between pH 8.3 and 10.00.

Marking Criteria Marks

Refers to pH curve and explains the large change in pH 1
Relates change in colour to within one drop of titrant added 1

Sample Answer
For the back titration, it is a neutralisation reaction between NaOH and HCl
which produces a neutral salt, NaCl. Typically, this means the equivalence point
is at pH = 7 so an indicator such as bromothymol blue with a pH range of 6.0 –
7.6 (or litmus) is used.

However, phenolphthalein is used in this titration even though it has a pH range

of 8.3 – 10.00. To understand this, consider the pH curve of a strong acid-base
titration.

Looking at the curve, from pH = 4 to pH = 11, the pH changes very rapidly from
an infinitesimally small change in the volume of base added. Since one drop of
added titrant will cause this large change, even though the change in colour of
phenolphthalein does not occur right on the equivalence point, it is within
approximately on drop.

− 33 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior permission of Michael Chan.
Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

Question 25 (5 marks)

credit: 2020 HSC Exam Q36

100.00 mL of 2.00 mol L-1 HCl(aq) was initially at a temperature of 22.5oC. The mass of
this solution was 103 g.

10.0g of solid NaOH was added to the acid. The specific heat capacity of the resulting
solution was 3.99 J g-1 K-1.

Assuming no energy loss to the environment, calculate the maximum temperature

reached by the solution.

Use the following information in your calculations.

NaOH(s) → Na+(aq) + OH-(aq) ΔH = -44.5 kJ mol-1

NaOH(aq) + HCl(aq) → NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) ΔH = -56.1 kJ mol-1 5

Marking Criteria Marks

Calculates energy released from dissociation and neutralisation 3
Calculates ΔT and hence maximum temperature reached by the solution 2

Sample Answer
1. Dissolution of NaOH(s)
m 10.0
n(NaOH) = = = 0.2500 mol
MM 22.99 + 16.00 + 1.008
q
ΔH = - 1
n
q1 = -ΔH × n= -(-44.5)(0.2500) = 11.127 kJ

2. Reaction between NaOH(aq) and HCl(aq)

NaOH(aq) + HCl(aq) → NaCl(aq) + H2O(l)
n(HCl) = c × v = (2.00)(0.100) = 0.200 mol
n(NaOH) = 0.2500 mol (calculated above)
Due to 1:1 mole ratio, HCl is the limiting reagent.

n(H2O)formed = n(HCl) = 0.200 mol

q2 = -ΔH × n = -(56.1)(0.200) = 11.22 kJ

− 34 −
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Year 12 Chemistry Module Exam

3. Total heat supplied

qtotal = q1 + q2
= 11.127 + 11.22
= 22.347 kJ

4. Change in temperature of solution

q = mCΔT
22.347 × 103 = (103 + 10.0)(3.99)(ΔT)
ΔT = 49.564oC

Given that initial temperature is 22.5oC, maximum final temperature is:

Tmax = Tinitial + ΔT
= 22.5 + 49.564
= 72.1oC (3 sf)

− 35 −
Copyright © Michael Chan All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
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