What is the conjugate base of `HCO_(3)^(-)` ?

Answer

To find the conjugate base of \( HCO_3^- \), we will follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the species
We start with the bicarbonate ion, which is represented as \( HCO_3^- \).

### Step 2: Understand the concept of conjugate bases
A conjugate base is formed when an acid donates a proton (H⁺). Therefore, to find the conjugate base of \( HCO_3^- \), we need to remove one proton from it.

### Step 3: Remove a proton
When we remove a proton (H⁺) from \( HCO_3^- \), we are left with the carbonate ion, \( CO_3^{2-} \).

### Step 4: Write the final answer
Thus, the conjugate base of \( HCO_3^- \) is \( CO_3^{2-} \).

### Summary
The conjugate base of \( HCO_3^- \) is \( CO_3^{2-} \).

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