The conjugate base of `HSO_(3)^(-)` is

Options

A. `H_(2)SO_(3)`
B. `SO_(2)`
C. `SO_(3)^(2-)`
D. `H_(2)S`

Explanation

To find the conjugate base of the ion \( HSO_3^- \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the concept of conjugate acids and bases
A conjugate base is formed when an acid donates a proton (H⁺). In other words, when an acid loses a hydrogen ion, it becomes its conjugate base.

### Step 2: Identify the acid
In this case, \( HSO_3^- \) (bisulfite ion) can act as an acid.

### Step 3: Remove a proton from the acid
To find the conjugate base of \( HSO_3^- \), we need to remove one hydrogen ion (H⁺) from it.

### Step 4: Perform the calculation
When we remove a proton from \( HSO_3^- \):
\[ HSO_3^- \rightarrow HSO_3^{2-} + H^+ \]
Thus, the conjugate base of \( HSO_3^- \) is \( SO_3^{2-} \) (sulfite ion).

### Final Answer
The conjugate base of \( HSO_3^- \) is \( SO_3^{2-} \).

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