What is a base in chemistry?
Q: What is a base in chemistry?
A: A base in chemistry is a substance that can accept a hydrogen ion (H+) from another substance.
Q: How can a chemical accept a proton?
A: A chemical can accept a proton if it has a negative charge or if the molecule has an electronegative atom like oxygen, nitrogen, or chlorine that is rich in electrons.
Q: Are all bases strong in nature?
A: No, like acids, some bases are strong and others are weak. Weak bases are less likely to accept protons, while the strong bases quickly take protons in solution or from other molecules.
Q: What is the "chemical opposite" of a base?
A: The "chemical opposite" of a base is an acid. An acid is a substance that will donate a hydrogen atom to the base.
Q: What is the pH range of bases?
A: Bases have a pH greater than 7.0. Weak bases generally have a pH value of 7–9 while strong bases have a pH value of 9–14.
Q: Can bases accept protons from other molecules?
A: Yes, strong bases can quickly take protons in solution or from other molecules.
Q: What kind of atoms can help a chemical to accept a proton?
A: Electronegative atoms like oxygen, nitrogen or chlorine, which are rich in electrons, can help a chemical to accept a proton.
