Chemistry / Unit 10 Chem 1809 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Amphiprotic Substances
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The idea
An amphiprotic substance can act as either a Brønsted-Lowry acid or base depending on the reaction partner it meets; amphoteric is the broader term applying beyond proton transfer.
In practice
Bicarbonate ion, HCO3−, donates a proton to a strong base but accepts one from a strong acid.
Where people slip
Containing hydrogen alone does not make a substance amphiprotic; it must both donate and accept protons.
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