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Ch. 4 - Acids and Bases/Electron Flow
Mullins - Organic Chemistry: A Learner Centered Approach 1st Edition
Mullins1st EditionOrganic Chemistry: A Learner Centered ApproachISBN: 9780137566471Non è quello che usi tu?Cambia libro di testo
Capitolo 3, Problema 51a

Identify the most stable conjugate base in each pair. Tell which structural features you analyzed and why you weighted them as you did in picking one answer.
(a)

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Analyze the electronegativity of the atoms bearing the negative charge. Oxygen (O) is more electronegative than sulfur (S), meaning it can better stabilize a negative charge.
Consider the inductive effect of the trifluoromethyl group (CF₃) attached to the oxygen atom. The CF₃ group is highly electronegative and withdraws electron density through the sigma bond, further stabilizing the negative charge on the oxygen.
Compare the size of the atoms. Sulfur is larger than oxygen, which allows the negative charge to be spread over a larger volume, providing some stabilization. However, this effect is less significant compared to the electronegativity and inductive effects.
Evaluate the overall resonance and delocalization possibilities. In this case, neither structure has resonance stabilization, so this factor does not contribute to the stability comparison.
Weigh the combined effects of electronegativity and inductive stabilization (stronger in the CF₃O⁻ structure) against the size-based stabilization of sulfur. The CF₃O⁻ conjugate base is more stable due to the dominance of electronegativity and inductive effects.

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Conjugate Bases

A conjugate base is the species that remains after an acid donates a proton (H+). The stability of a conjugate base is crucial in determining the strength of its corresponding acid; stronger acids have more stable conjugate bases. Factors influencing stability include electronegativity, resonance, and the size of the atom bearing the negative charge.
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Conjugated states

Resonance Stabilization

Resonance stabilization occurs when a molecule can be represented by multiple valid Lewis structures, allowing the negative charge to be delocalized over several atoms. This delocalization reduces electron density on any single atom, enhancing stability. In evaluating conjugate bases, resonance is a key factor, as more resonance structures typically lead to greater stability.
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The radical stability trend.

Electronegativity and Charge Distribution

Electronegativity refers to the ability of an atom to attract electrons in a bond. In the context of conjugate bases, a more electronegative atom stabilizing a negative charge will lead to a more stable conjugate base. When analyzing pairs of conjugate bases, the distribution of charge relative to electronegativity helps determine which base is more stable, as negative charges are better accommodated by more electronegative atoms.
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Electronegativity