Chemistry

Problem

Consider the following acids. I. 2-chloropropanoic acid (

CH_3CHClCOOH

) II. 3-chloropropanoic acid (

CH_2ClCH_2COOH

) III. Propanoic acid (

CH_3CH_2COOH

) Which ordering from weakest to strongest acid (smallest to largest

K_a

) is most consistent with the effect of substituent distance on acid strength? a)

I < II < III

II < III < I

III < II < I

III < I < II