Amphoterism

• Amphoteric substances can act as either an acid or a base. H2O is the most important example.

• H2O(l) + H2O(l) ? H3O+ (aq) + OH-(aq)

• Other examples are HCO3- and HSO3-

• HCO3-(aq) + OH-(aq) ? CO32-(aq) + H2O(l)

• HCO3-(aq) + H3O+ (aq) ? H2CO3(aq) + H2O(l)

• Another example is Al(OH)3, which can react with acid to give Al3+(aq), or with base to give Al(OH)4-(aq).

Kotz CD: 17m03an1.mov

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