Theories of acids and bases

2 marks · Hard

For the reaction below, identify the acid and the base according to the Bronsted-Lowry definition.

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.

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Acid: H_2SO_4; Base: H_2O (sulfuric acid donates a proton to water, which accepts it).

Also accept: H_2SO_4 is the acid, H_2O is the base according to Bronsted-Lowry.; Sulfuric acid donates a proton (acid); water accepts a proton (base).

Common mistakes: Reversing acid and base roles.; Omitting the explanation of proton transfer.

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Correctly identifies H_2SO_4 as the acid (proton donor).

B2 · 1 mark · Correctly identifies H_2O as the base (proton acceptor).

Worked solution

H_2SO_4 donates a proton to H_2O in the reaction, so H_2SO_4 is the Bronsted-Lowry acid and H_2O is the Bronsted-Lowry base.