Chapter 6, Problem 27A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The relationship between acid and base.

Introduction:

Solutions are homogeneous mixtures formed when a solute is dissolved in a solvent. There are two components in a solution- solvent and solute. The solvent is a substance in which another substance is dissolved. A solute is a substance that is dissolved in the solvent.

Explanation of Solution

When a substance that contains hydrogen is dissolved in water, it may release a hydrogen ion (H⁺) because it is attached to the negatively charged oxygen atoms in water. Acids are the substances that release hydrogen ions when dissolved in water. The more hydrogen ions a substance releases, the more acidic is the solution. Similarly, bases are the substances that release hydroxide ions (OH^-) when dissolved in water. The more hydroxide ions a substance releases, the more basic is the solution. The strength of an acid or base is determined by the amount of hydrogen ions or hydroxide ions in a solution.

Conclusion

Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions while bases are substances that release hydroxide ions. Acids and bases are key substances in biology.