Chapter 2: Problem 6
When dissolved in water, a(n) _______ donates \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) and \(\mathrm{a}(\mathrm{n})\) ________ \(\text { accepts } \mathrm{H}^{+}\). a. acid; base b. base; acid c. buffer; solute d. base; buffer
Short Answer
Expert verified
The correct answer is: a. acid; base.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Role of Acid
First, we need to understand that an acid is a substance that, when dissolved in water, donates a proton (\(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)). This is a fundamental property of acids in chemistry.
02
Identify the Role of Base
Next, understand the role of a base. A base is a substance that accepts protons (\(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)). This behavior is typical of bases in chemical reactions, especially in aqueous solutions.
03
Match Definitions to the Answer Choices
Given the definitions:- an acid donates \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)- a base accepts \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)Match these to the answer choices: - a. acid; base - b. base; acid - c. buffer; solute - d. base; bufferThe correct choices are 'acid' for donating \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) and 'base' for accepting \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\).
04
Select the Correct Answer
Based on the definitions and matching them to the answer choices, the correct pair is: a. acid (donates \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)); base (accepts \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Proton Donation
In the world of acid-base chemistry, proton donation is a fundamental concept. When we speak about an acid in chemical terms, we're talking about a substance that has the ability to donate hydrogen ions or protons ( \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) ). This process is crucial because it characterizes the behavior and function of acids.
- **Understanding Acids:** Acids are substances that release \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) into a solution. Their ability to donate protons is what makes them acidic. They often have a sour taste and can turn litmus paper red.
- **Example of Proton Donation:** A classic example is hydrochloric acid ( \(\mathrm{HCl}\) ) in water. The \(\mathrm{HCl}\) molecule separates, delivering an \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) ion into the solution, leaving a \(\mathrm{Cl}^{-}\) ion behind.
Proton Acceptance
Proton acceptance is the flip side of the coin in acid-base chemistry. When it comes to bases, their defining feature is their ability to accept protons ( \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) ). This characteristic is what distinguishes them from acids and is key to many chemical processes.
- **Role of Bases:** Bases are substances that capture \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) ions from the environment. They usually have a bitter taste and feel slippery to the touch. Additionally, they turn litmus paper blue.
- **Example of Proton Acceptance:** Consider ammonia ( \(\mathrm{NH}_3\) ) in water. \(\mathrm{NH}_3\) can accept an \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\) ion, forming \(\mathrm{NH}_4^+\) (ammonium).
Aqueous Solutions
Aqueous solutions are at the heart of many reactions in acid-base chemistry. These solutions are made when a substance is dissolved in water. The term "aqueous" comes from "aqua," the Latin word for water, highlighting the essential role of water in these reactions.
- **Characteristics of Aqueous Solutions:** These solutions often serve as mediums where acids and bases can express their properties. In such solutions, ionization occurs, often allowing protons to be donated or accepted.
- **Acids and Bases in Aqueous Solutions:** This environment facilitates the behaviors of acids and bases. For example, when an acid like \(\mathrm{HCl}\) donates a proton in water, it forms a \(\mathrm{H}_3\mathrm{O}^{+}\) (hydronium ion), whereas a base, like \(\mathrm{NH}_3\) , accepts a proton to form \(\mathrm{NH}_4^+\) .