[Campbell Biology P.100] Which statement accurately describes acids and bases as explained i... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes acids and bases as explained in the text?

  • A: Acids increase H+ concentration by accepting H+ ions, while strong bases fully dissociate.
  • B: A strong acid completely dissociates in water, leading to a single arrow in its reaction, whereas a weak base uses a double arrow because its reactions are reversible.
  • C: Bases always reduce H+ concentration indirectly by forming hydronium ions.
  • D: Carbonic acid is a strong acid because it significantly shifts the H+ and OH- balance.

Explanation

The text states that strong acids like HCl dissociate completely, shown by a single arrow HCl → H+ + Cl- . It also notes that weak bases like ammonia NH3 use double arrows because their binding and release of hydrogen ions are reversible reactions NH3 + H+ ⇌ NH4+ . Acids donate H+ ions to increase concentration, and bases reduce H+ concentration.