A question regarding the definition of acids and bases

[Dong Aleta]

Hi!

I just read in an inorganic chemistry book (by Whitten, et al.) that acids are defined as substances that produce H⁺ ions in dilute aqueous solutions, and bases are those that produce OH^-. To me, this definition implies that a substance that has yet to produce an H⁺ or an OH^- can already be called an acid or base, respectively. Meaning, pure HCl gas that is yet to be bubbled in water can already be called an acid, and a pure NaOH pellet that is yet to be dissolved in water can already be called a base.

Is this correct? Thanks!

 

[Dr. Courtney]

Hi!

I just read in an inorganic chemistry book (by Whitten, et al.) that acids are defined as substances that produce H⁺ ions in dilute aqueous solutions, and bases are those that produce OH^-. To me, this definition implies that a substance that has yet to produce an H⁺ or an OH^- can already be called an acid or base, respectively. Meaning, pure HCl gas that is yet to be bubbled in water can already be called an acid, and a pure NaOH pellet that is yet to be dissolved in water can already be called a base.

Is this correct? Thanks!

Is is correct in the sense of the definition you gave, but definitions of acids and bases can vary with context, and another teacher or scientist might disagree.

 

[Dong Aleta]

Is is correct in the sense of the definition you gave, but definitions of acids and bases can vary with context, and another teacher or scientist might disagree.

I see! I was just curious about this one. But thanks so much for the answer!

 

[Almeisan]

Look up the basic definitions of acids; Lewis, Arrhenius and Bronsted-Lowry.