Reactions of acids
2 marks · EasyHydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
Define the terms acid and base in terms of proton transfer.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
An acid is a proton donor; a base is a proton acceptor.
Also accept: Acid: donates protons. Base: accepts protons.; Acid: gives H+ ions. Base: receives H+ ions.
Common mistakes: Mixing up donor and acceptor.; Defining without reference to protons.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Correct definition of acid in terms of proton transfer (e.g., proton donor).
B2 · 1 mark · Correct definition of base in terms of proton transfer (e.g., proton acceptor).
Worked solution
An acid is a substance that donates protons (H+ ions) in a reaction.
A base is a substance that accepts protons in a reaction.