As both these experiments take acids and bases and form neutralized compounds, would the hydrochloric acid (HCl) and the vinegar, which both donate hydrogen ions, be the acid or the base?

**If you need a refresher on acids and bases, here is a Khan Academy article to help**

a
Acid
b
Base
c
Neither

In the context of the experiments mentioned, the hydrochloric acid (HCl) and vinegar can be considered the acids.

Based on the information provided, hydrochloric acid (HCl) and vinegar would be classified as acids. Acids are substances that donate hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid that completely dissociates in water to form H+ ions. Vinegar, on the other hand, contains acetic acid, which also donates H+ ions when dissolved in water. Therefore, both HCl and vinegar are examples of acids.

To determine whether hydrochloric acid (HCl) and vinegar are acids or bases, we need to understand the concepts of acids and bases.

Acids are substances that donate hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water. Bases, on the other hand, are substances that accept or react with hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water.

In the case of hydrochloric acid (HCl), it dissociates in water into hydrogen ions (H+) and chloride ions (Cl-). This means that it donates hydrogen ions, making it an acid.

Vinegar is primarily composed of acetic acid (CH3COOH), which also dissociates in water into hydrogen ions (H+) and acetate ions (CH3COO-). Like hydrochloric acid, vinegar donates hydrogen ions and therefore falls into the category of acids.

So, to answer your question, both hydrochloric acid (HCl) and vinegar can be classified as acids since they donate hydrogen ions when dissolved in water.