Question

Give a simple definition of an acid.

Short answer

An acid is a substance that, when dissolved in water, donates hydrogen ions (H+), increasing the concentration of H+ in the solution. Acids usually have a sour taste and can be found in many common items such as citrus fruits and vinegar.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the key properties of acids

Acids are substances that have certain properties and behaviors. They generally taste sour, and they can be found in various everyday items like citrus fruits and vinegar. When dissolved in water, they increase the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+).

Describe the role of hydrogen ions

An essential characteristic of acids is that they donate hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water. The acidity of a solution depends on the concentration of hydrogen ions – the higher the concentration, the more acidic the solution.

Provide a simple definition of an acid

An acid is a substance that, when dissolved in water, donates hydrogen ions (H+), increasing the concentration of H+ in the solution. Acids usually have a sour taste and can be found in many common items such as citrus fruits and vinegar.