Strongest Acid: Cl3CCOOH

Explanation:

1. Introduction

In order to determine the strongest acid among the given options, we need to analyze their molecular structures and the strength of the bonds within them.

2. Molecular Structures

Let's examine the molecular structures of the given acids:

a) Cl3CCOOH (Trichloroacetic acid)
b) ClCH2COOH (Chloroacetic acid)
c) Cl2CHCOOH (Dichloroacetic acid)
d) CH3COOH (Acetic acid)

3. Analysis of Acidity

The strength of an acid is determined by its ability to donate a proton (H+). Acids with more stable conjugate bases are stronger, as they are more likely to donate a proton.

a) Trichloroacetic acid (Cl3CCOOH) has three chlorine atoms bonded to the central carbon atom. The electronegativity of chlorine is higher than that of carbon, causing the Cl-C bond to be polarized. This polarization weakens the carbon-hydrogen bond, making it easier for the acid to donate a proton. Therefore, Cl3CCOOH is the strongest acid among the given options.

b) Chloroacetic acid (ClCH2COOH) has one chlorine atom bonded to the central carbon atom. The presence of chlorine weakens the carbon-hydrogen bond, but not as much as in trichloroacetic acid.

c) Dichloroacetic acid (Cl2CHCOOH) has two chlorine atoms bonded to the central carbon atom. The presence of two chlorine atoms further weakens the carbon-hydrogen bond compared to chloroacetic acid.

d) Acetic acid (CH3COOH) does not have any chlorine atoms bonded to the central carbon atom. Therefore, the carbon-hydrogen bond is stronger compared to the other three acids.

4. Conclusion

Among the given options, trichloroacetic acid (Cl3CCOOH) is the strongest acid. This is due to the presence of three chlorine atoms, which weaken the carbon-hydrogen bond and make it easier for the acid to donate a proton.