In order for a compound to be an acid/base

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties and behaviors of acids and bases, particularly in aqueous solutions. Participants explore concepts such as the dissociation of acids and bases, the role of water in their corrosiveness, and the outcomes of mixing acids and bases, including the formation of salts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the more H+ ions an acid releases, the higher its pH, but later corrects this to state that a lower pH indicates higher acidity.
  • There is a question about why acids only dissociate in aqueous solutions, with a later reply clarifying that they require water to dissociate, though some strong acids can dissociate even in anhydrous conditions.
  • Another participant asserts that for an acid or base to be corrosive, water is typically necessary, but mentions exceptions for certain strong acids like sulfuric acid.
  • Participants discuss the neutralization reaction between acids and bases, questioning whether the strength of the acid affects the acidity of the resulting salt.
  • A participant points out that the link to nucleophiles provided in the thread may not be relevant to the current discussion and emphasizes the need for a correct understanding of basic acid-base concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the conditions under which acids and bases dissociate and their corrosive properties. There is no consensus on the implications of mixing acids and bases, particularly regarding the acidity of the resulting salt.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on specific definitions of acidity and basicity, and there are unresolved questions about the conditions under which acids and bases can be corrosive. The discussion also highlights potential misunderstandings regarding pH levels and the nature of dissociation.

LogicalAcid
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For an acid, the more Hydrogen (H+) Ions the compound releases in an aqueous solution it, the higher its pH correct, question is now, why is it that acids only break up into their elements in a aqueous solution? For a base, the more Hydroxide ions it releases (OH-), the lower the compounds pH. So in order for an acid or base to be corrosive, their has to be water present? And why is it that when you mix both a Base and Acid, they neutralize e/o and form a salt, and if the acid was stronger, does that make the salt more acidic, and the other way around?
 
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LogicalAcid said:
For an acid, the more Hydrogen (H+) Ions the compound releases in an aqueous solution it, the higher its pH correct, question is now, why is it that acids only break up into their elements in a aqueous solution? For a base, the more Hydroxide ions it releases (OH-), the lower the compounds pH. So in order for an acid or base to be corrosive, their has to be water present? And why is it that when you mix both a Base and Acid, they neutralize e/o and form a salt, and if the acid was stronger, does that make the salt more acidic, and the other way around?

For the pH part, I made a mistake. The lower somethings pH is the more acidic it is, higher is more basic.
 
LogicalAcid said:
why is it that acids only break up into their elements in a aqueous solution?

Not into elements, but to dissociate they need water. Some of the strongest acids can dissociate even if they are liquid and anhydrous.

So in order for an acid or base to be corrosive, their has to be water present?

In most cases yes. Sulfuric acid is corrosive even anhydrous, same about nitric and perchloric.

And why is it that when you mix both a Base and Acid, they neutralize

I told you to try to write reaction in the other thread.

Note: I believe link to nucleophiles page granpa posted is not relevant at this stage, you need to get a correct understanding of the very basic ideas. Nucleophiles are a step higher on the ladder.
 

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