Chapter 13, Problem 4QC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason that categorizes an aqueous solution as an acid or a base is to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Acids ionize in the solution to give ${\text{H}}^{+}$ ions. For example, $\text{HCl}$ ionizes as:

$\text{HCl}\left(aq\right)\to {\text{H}}^{+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{Cl}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$

Bases ionize in solution to give ${\text{OH}}^{-}$ ions. For example, $\text{NaOH}$ ionizes as:

$\text{NaOH}\left(aq\right)\to {\text{Na}}^{+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{OH}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$