4.8 Introduction to Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons (H⁺ ions) between substances, often resulting in the formation of water. Acids typically contain hydrogen ions (such as HCl), while bases contain hydroxide ions (such as NaOH). For example:

HCl + NaOH → H₂O + NaCl

In the Bronstead-Lowry theory, acids donate protons while bases accept protons. These reactions typically occur in aqueous solutions because water facilitates proton transfer. After donating a proton, an acid becomes its conjugate base, and after accepting a proton, a base becomes its conjugate acid.