Based on the steps occurring in an acid-base reaction, which definition of acids and bases is most practical? Give three reasons for your choice.
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The most practical definition of acids and bases is the Brønsted-Lowry definition.
Three reasons for this choice are:
1. The Brønsted-Lowry definition is based on proton transfer: According to this definition, an acid is a species that donates a proton (H+) and a base is a species that accepts a proton. This definition encompasses a wide range of acid-base reactions that occur in various scenarios, including aqueous solutions, gases, and organic solvents.
2. It allows for a broader understanding of acid-base reactions: The Brønsted-Lowry definition allows us to understand not only the typical acid-base reactions in aqueous solutions but also reactions that involve other solvents and non-aqueous media. It provides a framework that can be applied to a wide range of chemical reactions, making it versatile and practical.
3. It is applicable to both strong and weak acids and bases: The Brønsted-Lowry definition recognizes that acids can be strong or weak, and bases can also be strong or weak. This flexibility allows us to characterize different substances based on their ability to donate or accept protons, providing a more comprehensive understanding of acid-base chemistry.
In summary, the Brønsted-Lowry definition of acids and bases is the most practical because it is based on proton transfer, allows for a broad understanding of acid-base reactions, and is applicable to both strong and weak acid-base systems.