Identify conjugate acid and conjugate base for HCO ₃ ⁻ ion respectively

Step-by-step solution

To determine the conjugate acid and conjugate base of HCO ₃⁻ , consider its amphoteric nature—it can either accept or donate a proton ( H ⁺ ). As a base, HCO ₃⁻ accepts H ⁺ to form its conjugate acid: HCO ₃⁻ + H ⁺ H ₂ CO ₃ . As an acid, HCO ₃⁻ donates H ⁺ to form its conjugate base: HCO ₃⁻ H ⁺ + CO ₃²⁻ . The conjugate acid is H ₂ CO ₃ and the conjugate base is CO ₃²⁻ . Evaluating the options: Option A: CO ₃²⁻ and H ₂ CO ₃ (incorrect order) Option B: H ₂ CO ₃ and CO ₂ (incorrect conjugate base) Option C: CO ₂ and H