Explanation:
To rank the carboxylic acids from weakest to strongest, we'll consider their ability to donate a proton (H⁺) in aqueous solution, which correlates with acidity. Generally, the more stable the resulting conjugate base, the stronger the acid.
1. CH₃OOH (Acetic acid): The weakest acid among the given options. It has only one chlorine atom, so its conjugate base (acetate ion) is more stable compared to the other options due to resonance stabilization.
2. CH₂ClCOOH (Chloroacetic acid): This is stronger than acetic acid because the presence of one chlorine atom increases the electron-withdrawing effect, making it easier to donate a proton.
3. CHCl₂COOH (Dichloroacetic acid): Stronger than chloroacetic acid due to the presence of two chlorine atoms, further enhancing the electron-withdrawing effect.
4. CCl₃COOH (Trichloroacetic acid): The strongest acid among the given options. With three chlorine atoms, it has the most pronounced electron-withdrawing effect, making it the most acidic.
