Question

question 1 (1 point)
determine the position of equilibrium of the following acid - base reaction by stating if the reaction favors the formation of reactants (left) or products (right)?
reactants
products
neither reactants nor products (reaction rate equal in both directions)

Explanation:

Step1: Compare acid - base strengths

The acidity of a compound is related to the stability of its conjugate base. Here, we compare the stability of the conjugate bases formed. The thiolate ($\ce{CH3CH2S-}$) is more stable than the alkoxide ($\ce{CH3CH2CH2O-}$) because sulfur is larger than oxygen and can better disperse the negative charge. The more stable the conjugate base, the stronger the acid. The acid on the left - hand side is 1 - propanol and the acid on the right - hand side is 1 - propanethiol. 1 - Propanethiol is a stronger acid than 1 - propanol.

Step2: Determine equilibrium position

In an acid - base reaction, the equilibrium favors the side with the weaker acid and weaker base. Since 1 - propanol is a weaker acid than 1 - propanethiol, the reaction will favor the formation of the reactants.

Answer:

reactants