Question

Identify each definition that applies to the compound in red. Check all that apply.

Mg(OH)² + H₂SO₄ → 2H₂O+MgSO₄
o Arrhenius acid
o Bronsted-Lowry acid
o Arrhenius base
o Bronsted-Lowry base

Answer 1

Mg(OH)2 in the reaction is classified as both an Arrhenius base because it increases the concentration of OH- in solution, and a Brønsted-Lowry base because it can accept protons to form water.

Step-by-step explanation:

The compound in red, Mg(OH)2, is involved in a chemical reaction with H2SO4. To determine which definitions apply to Mg(OH)2, we must look at the classical definitions of acids and bases provided by Arrhenius and Brønsted-Lowry. According to the Arrhenius definition, a base is a substance that increases the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water. Mg(OH)2 is recognizable as containing OH- ions and when it dissolves, it will increase the concentration of OH- ions in the solution, hence it can be classified as an Arrhenius base.

Looking at the Brønsted-Lowry definition, a base is a substance that can accept a proton (H+). In the reaction with H2SO4, the hydroxide ions from Mg(OH)2 accepts protons to form water, H2O, thereby acting as a Brønsted-Lowry base.

Therefore, the correct options for Mg(OH)2 in the reaction would be:

• Arrhenius base
• Brønsted-Lowry base