General Chemistry Principles Flashcards

Which quantum number determines the shape of an atomic orbital?

Answer: Angular momentum quantum number (l)

The angular momentum quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital (s, p, d, f).

A buffer solution resists pH change best when the pH equals the:

Answer: pKa of the weak acid

A buffer is most effective when pH = pKa, where the concentrations of weak acid and conjugate base are equal (Henderson-Hasselbalch equation).

What is the hybridization of the central carbon in CO2?

Answer: sp

Carbon in CO2 forms two double bonds with no lone pairs, resulting in sp hybridization and linear geometry.

During a reaction, ΔG = 0. This indicates the reaction is:

Answer: At equilibrium

When ΔG = 0, the system is at chemical equilibrium and the forward and reverse rates are equal.

Which of the following exhibits the highest boiling point due to intermolecular forces?

Answer: NH3

NH3 has the highest boiling point because it can form hydrogen bonds, which are stronger than the London dispersion forces present in the others.

In a galvanic cell, oxidation occurs at the:

Answer: Anode

Oxidation (loss of electrons) always occurs at the anode of an electrochemical cell.

The rate law for a reaction is rate = k[A]²[B]. If [A] is doubled while [B] is held constant, the rate will:

Answer: Quadruple

Because the reaction is second order in A, doubling [A] increases the rate by a factor of 2² = 4.