Step 1: Definition
Conjugate Acid = Base + $H^+$; Conjugate Base = Acid - $H^+$.
Step 2: Analysis
- To find the conjugate acid of $HCO_3^-$, add a proton: $HCO_3^- + H^+ \rightarrow H_2CO_3$.
- To find the conjugate base of $HCO_3^-$, remove a proton: $HCO_3^- - H^+ \rightarrow CO_3^{2-}$.
Step 3: Conclusion
The conjugate acid is $H_2CO_3$ and the conjugate base is $CO_3^{2-}$.
Final Answer: (D)