Question detail
Define a Brønsted-Lowry acid and provide an example.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Acids and bases (A-level only)
Question
Define a Brønsted-Lowry acid and provide an example.
Answer
A Brønsted-Lowry acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+) to another substance. An example of a Brønsted-Lowry acid is hydrochloric acid (HCl), which donates a proton to water to form hydronium ions (H3O+).
Explanation
This answer is strong because it clearly defines the concept of a Brønsted-Lowry acid and provides a relevant example, demonstrating understanding of acid-base theory. The question tests the student's ability to recall and apply the definition of Brønsted-Lowry acids.
Common mistake
Identifying Conjugate Pairs
Students often confuse conjugate acid-base pairs by misidentifying the acid and its conjugate base or vice versa.
To correctly identify conjugate acid-base pairs, remember that a conjugate acid is formed when a base gains a proton (H⁺), and a conjugate base is formed when an acid loses a proton. For example, in the reaction HCl + H₂O ⇌ Cl⁻ + H₃O⁺, HCl is the acid and Cl⁻ is its conjugate base, while H₂O is the base and H₃O⁺ is its conjugate acid.
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