Acids and Bases Definition, Types, Examples & Uses

Acids and Bases

Subject: Chemistry

Book: General Chemistry

Acids donate protons (H+) or accept electron pairs (Lewis acid), while bases accept protons or donate electron pairs (Lewis base). Common acids (e.g., HCl) and bases (e.g., NaOH) dissociate in water, influencing pH. Strong acids/bases dissociate completely, whereas weak acids/bases only partially ionize. Acid–base reactions produce salts and often water. The strength of an acid or base is quantified by its dissociation constant (Ka or Kb) and pH scale measurement.