Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 4: Chemical Reactions/Question
AP Chemistryeasymcq1 pt

In CH₃COOH(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ H₃O⁺(aq) + CH₃COO⁻(aq), what role does H₂O play under the Brønsted-Lowry model?

A.A base, because it accepts a proton from acetic acid
B.An acid, because the molecule contains hydrogen atoms
C.A catalyst, because it speeds up the ionization
D.A spectator, because it emerges unchanged

Explanation

Core Concept

Brønsted-Lowry bases accept protons, and water does exactly that, converting into hydronium as it takes H⁺ from acetic acid. Acetic acid, the proton donor, serves as the acid in the forward direction. Tracking each handoff labels every species and reveals the two conjugate pairs, CH₃COOH/CH₃COO⁻ and H₃O⁺/H₂O.

Correct Answer

AA base, because it accepts a proton from acetic acid

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