What is the Brønsted-Lowry definition of an acid and base?
A. Acids are electron donors and bases are electron acceptors.
B. Acids are proton donors and bases are proton acceptors.
C. Acids are proton acceptors and bases are proton donors.
D. Acids are compounds that increase the concentration of hydroxide ions in solution and bases are compounds that increase the concentration of hydrogen ions in solution.
A) Acids are electron donors and bases are electron acceptors: This statement describes the Lewis definition of acids and bases, which focuses on the transfer of electron pairs, rather than the Brønsted-Lowry definition, which involves the transfer of protons.
B) Acids are proton donors and bases are proton acceptors. (Correct Answer): According to the Brønsted-Lowry definition, an acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+ ion), while a base is a substance that accepts a proton.
C) Acids are proton acceptors and bases are proton donors: This statement incorrectly describes the roles of acids and bases according to the Brønsted-Lowry definition. Acids donate protons, while bases accept protons.
D) Acids are compounds that increase the concentration of hydroxide ions in solution and bases are compounds that increase the concentration of hydrogen ions in solution: This statement does not accurately represent the Brønsted-Lowry definition. Acids and bases are defined based on their behavior regarding proton transfer, not changes in ion concentration.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is B.