Chemistry

Chemistry

Problem

For the reaction HNO3(aq)+H2O(l)→NO3−(aq)+H3O+(aq)HNO_3(aq)+H_2O(l)\rightarrow NO_3^{-}(aq)+H_3O^{+}(aq), which species acts as the Brønsted–Lowry acid? a) H2O(l)H_2O(l) b) HNO3(aq)HNO_3(aq) c) H3O+(aq)H_3O^{+}(aq) d) NO3−(aq)NO_3^{-}(aq)
Intuitive explanation

A Brønsted–Lowry acid is defined as a proton (H+H^+) donor—the species that gives away a hydrogen ion to another molecule. Look at what's happening in this reaction: one reactant must be losing an H+H^+ while the other gains it. Identify which reactant loses the proton and becomes the product with one fewer hydrogen, and you've found your acid.

Intuitive explanation

A Brønsted–Lowry acid is defined as a proton (H+H^+) donor—the species that gives away a hydrogen ion to another molecule. Look at what's happening in this reaction: one reactant must be losing an H+H^+ while the other gains it. Identify which reactant loses the proton and becomes the product with one fewer hydrogen, and you've found your acid.

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