Acid-Base Behavior
Acid-base behavior refers to the chemical properties and reactions of acids and bases. Acids are substances that can donate protons (H⁺ ions) in a solution, while bases can accept protons. This interaction is fundamental in many chemical processes and is often described using the Brønsted-Lowry theory, which focuses on proton transfer.
The strength of an acid or base is determined by its ability to dissociate in water. Strong acids, like hydrochloric acid (HCl), completely dissociate, while weak acids, such as acetic acid (CH₃COOH), only partially dissociate. Similarly, strong bases, like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), fully dissociate, while weak bases, such as ammonia (NH₃), do not.