Which of the following is the formula for the conjugate acid of the acetate ion?

• A. CH3COO-
• B. HCOOH
• C. CH3COOH
• D. C2H5COOH

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the acetate ion given in the problem, which is \(\mathrm{CH_3COO^-}\).
2. Recall that a conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton (\(\mathrm{H^+}\)).
3. Add a proton (\(\mathrm{H^+}\)) to the acetate ion to form its conjugate acid.
4. Write the formula of the conjugate acid by adding one hydrogen atom to the acetate ion, resulting in \(\mathrm{CH_3COOH}\).
5. Compare the options given and recognize that \(\mathrm{CH_3COOH}\) corresponds to acetic acid, the conjugate acid of the acetate ion.