________ is the weakest of the acids listed below.

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) Acetic acid

Explanation:
Acetic acid is the weakest acid among the options listed. It is a weak organic acid (CH₃COOH) that partially ionizes in aqueous solution, unlike the others which are strong acids that fully dissociate in water.

Information Booster:

• Acetic acid: Weak acid; only partially ionizes in solution; pKa ≈ 4.76.
• Hydrofluoric acid (HF): Although not fully dissociating like other strong acids, it is still stronger than acetic acid and highly corrosive.
• Nitric acid (HNO₃): Strong acid; completely dissociates in water.
• Hydrochloric acid (HCl): Strong acid; completely ionizes in aqueous solution.

Additional Information:

• Acetic acid is the main component of vinegar (apart from water).
• Weak acids are often used in buffer solutions, while strong acids are common in industrial processes and labs.
• The strength of an acid depends on its ability to donate protons (H⁺ ions) in solution.