Which of the following correctly explains why an acid shows acidic behaviour only in aqueous solution?
Hydrogen ions (H+) are produced only when the acid dissolves in water.
Acidic character is defined by the release of hydrogen ions (H+), which in water exist as hydronium ions (H3O+).
A pure acid such as HCl gas or glacial ethanoic acid contains covalent molecules; without water there is no medium to solvate and separate the ions, so the acid does not ionise and shows no acidic behaviour (dry HCl gas does not turn blue litmus red).
When the acid is dissolved in water, water molecules pull the H+ away from the acid molecule and stabilise it as H3O+, which is what produces the sour taste, litmus change and reaction with metals or bases.
Hence, hydrogen ions are produced only when the acid dissolves in water.
Similar Questions
Impurities are converted to compounds by adding refining agents in which type of refining method?
What colour does phenolphthalein turn to in a basic solution?
Metals of medium reactivity are generally found in the form of which compounds?
Which of the following is the purest form of iron?
Which of the following is the carbon allotrope having a tetrahedral structure?
A student is comparing samples of sulphur, carbon (Diamond), and bromine. Which property is least likely to be observed in all three?
The study of metals and their properties belongs to which branch of chemistry?
In which combined form is oxygen found in the air besides free O2?
Which statement best describes the electrical conductivity of non-metals in their pure form?
Which material would be the best choice for electrical transmission lines?
Important Questions from Chemistry
What is deposited on iron in the process of Galvanization?
Which element is used for making solar cells?
Which gas is flushed in a bag of chips to prevent the chips from getting oxidized?
Terylene is a type of:
Who was the first Indian lady scientist who worked with organic chemistry and medicinal plant?
