How Do Acids and Bases Interact in Reactions?

[baylin]

Sorry guys,

I can't seem to grasp the concept:

It deals with acids and bases. When the acid donates the proton, to the base, how do we know how many is transferred and how many the base can accept? This is where I am stumped.

Homework Statement

What ions are formed when nitric acid, HNO3 is added to water?

The Attempt at a Solution

HNO3 + H2O -----> H3O + NO3

My Thought Process: The HNO3 is the acid, and since it donates the proton, we give off one proton, the H, to the other reactant, H2O.


The next part says:

Homework Statement

What ions are formed when potassium hydroxide is added to water?

The Attempt at a Solution

KOH + H2O -------> KOH2 + HO

My Thought Process: The H2O is the acid and it donates one proton to the other reactant, the H, to the other reactant KOH.


The next part says:

Homework Statement

If these two solutions are poured together, what is the reaction that would occur?

The Attempt at a Solution

I am not sure here. Are they talking about the "two solutions" meaning the nitric acid and the potassium hydroxide? If they are:

HNO3 + KOH ------> KOH2 + NO3

My Thought Process: The nitric acid is the acid here, so it gives off one proton, the H, to the other reactant, KOH.


I think I have the first one right, but I doubt I have the second one. I am sure if someone can please explain the thought process of what goes on in your head, I can understand it and deduce it from there. Is it always just ONE H that is donated? I tried reading the book, most of the time I understand it, as the book ("Introduction to CHEMISTRY" by Tro) it great! But this time I don't understand this section at all.

Thanks for any input!

 

[Borek]

KOH + H2O -------> KOH2 + HO

Nope. KOH is an Arrhenius base. Google/check what it means and how it dissociates.