Question

Boric acid is a weak acid. It acts as an acid only on first receiving OH from the medium and then releasing H⁺ ions. From the following organic compounds select the one in presence of which it acts as a strong acid. Glycerol, Ethylene, Ethylalcohol, Acetic Acid.

Answer 1

It acts as a strong acid in presence of glyceol.

Reason: Acetic acid itself is an acid and cannot give OH^– ion, ethyl alcohol being a primary alcohol is alos acidic. Ethylene also can’t furnish OH^– ion. But glycerol that has 3-OH groups. One of which is a secondary -OH group can assist boric acid to release H⁺ ions.