Use the Relationship Between K_a1 and K_a2 for H₂SO₃ and K_b1

Multiple Choice

Use the relationship between K_a1 and K_a2 for H₂SO₃ and K_b1 and K_b2 for the SO₃^2- ion to predict whether a 0.10 M solution of the HSO₃^- (bisulfite) ion would be acidic, basic or neutral. (H₂SO₃: K_a1 = 1.7 x 10^-2, K_a2 = 6.4 x 10^-8)

A) The solution would be strongly acidic, pH < 2.
B) The solution would be moderately acidic, pH $\approx$ 4.
C) The solution would be very close to neutral, pH $\approx$ 7.
D) The solution would be slightly basic, pH $\approx$ 8.
E) The solution would be strongly basic, pH > 12.