To definitively prove the mechanism of the bicarbonate test, Acetic acid () is reacted with isotopically labelled sodium bicarbonate (). Where will the radioactive Carbon-14 isotope strictly end up in

Question

To definitively prove the mechanism of the bicarbonate test, Acetic acid ($CH_3COOH$) is reacted with isotopically labelled sodium bicarbonate ($NaH^{14}CO_3$). Where will the radioactive Carbon-14 isotope strictly end up in the final products?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: D. The bicarbonate test involves an acid-base reaction where the acidic proton from the carboxylic acid protonates the bicarbonate ion () to form carbonic acid (), which instantly decomposes into and . Therefore, the carbon in the evolved gas originates exclusively from the bicarbonate, carrying the C-14 label.

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