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Multiple Choice

Which definition best describes an Arrhenius acid?

Arrhenius acids are substances that increase the concentration of hydrogen ions in water. In aqueous solution, those H+ ions are delivered to water molecules to form hydronium (H3O+). Saying a substance produces hydrogen ions in water directly captures this behavior, so it’s the best description. Producing hydroxide ions in water would describe Arrhenius bases, not acids. A statement about neutralizing bases is a general acid–base reaction and doesn’t specify the key aqueous H+ donation. Forming bonds with metals is irrelevant to the Arrhenius acid concept.

Arrhenius acids are substances that increase the concentration of hydrogen ions in water. In aqueous solution, those H+ ions are delivered to water molecules to form hydronium (H3O+). Saying a substance produces hydrogen ions in water directly captures this behavior, so it’s the best description. Producing hydroxide ions in water would describe Arrhenius bases, not acids. A statement about neutralizing bases is a general acid–base reaction and doesn’t specify the key aqueous H+ donation. Forming bonds with metals is irrelevant to the Arrhenius acid concept.