Final answer:
Acids produce hydrogen ions (H+) and bases produce hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water, which are key to their definitions according to Arrhenius theory. These ions are identifiers of their acidic or basic nature and play a crucial role in the reactions they undergo, such as neutralization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ions produced from acids and from bases are fundamental to understanding their properties and reactions. When an acid is dissolved in water, it dissociates to produce hydrogen ions (H+) and anions. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) in aqueous solution dissociates into hydrogen ions and chloride ions (Cl-). On the other hand, a base produces hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water, alongside cations. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), for instance, dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions in solution.
All ionic compounds, acids, and bases produce ions in water and are classified as electrolytes, which means they can conduct electricity when dissolved in water. Substances that do not dissociate into ions are known as nonelectrolytes, and thus, do not conduct electricity in aqueous solution.
Using the Arrhenius definition, an acid is characterized by its ability to produce hydrogen ions in solution, whereas a base is defined by its ability to produce hydroxide ions in solution. This distinction is fundamental to the understanding of acid-base chemistry and the reactions involved, such as neutralization where an acid and a base react to form water and a salt.