Chapter 16, Problem 74AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A base according to Bronsted-Lowry model should be defined.

Concept Introduction:

The Bronsted-Lowry model is also known as proton model for acids and bases. It defines acids and bases on the basis of their nature with respect to hydrogen ion ${\text{H}}^{+}$. According to Bronsted-Lowry model, acids are proton donor and bases are proton acceptor.

On the basis of this theory, a substance can behave as an acid only if a base is also present in the same solution and a substance can behave as a base only if an acid is present. On donating proton, acid forms base and on accepting proton, base forms acid. The base and acid so formed are known as conjugate base and acid of the acidic and basic substances respectively.

For example, ammonia and hydrochloric acid can act as Bronsted-Lowry base and acid in the presence of each other as follows:

$\text{HCl}+{\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}\to {\text{NH}}_{\text{4}}{}^{+}+{\text{Cl}}^{-}$.