Acids only exhibit acidic behavior when dissolved in water because they require water to dissociate into hydrogen ions (H+) and their corresponding anions, according to Doubtnut. These H+ ions are what define acidic properties, and without water, they cannot be generated, notes Doubtnut.
Elaboration:
Dissociation:
Acids, when dissolved in water, undergo a process called dissociation, where they break down into their constituent ions. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) dissociates into H+ and Cl- ions.
Hydrogen Ions (H+):
The presence of these hydrogen ions (H+) in solution is what gives acids their acidic properties, according to Doubtnut.
Water’s Role:
Water molecules polarize and surround the acid molecules, weakening the bonds and facilitating the dissociation into ions, These H+ ions are what define acidic properties, and without water, they cannot be generated, notes Doubtnut.
Elaboration:
Dissociation:
Acids, when dissolved in water, undergo a process called dissociation, where they break down into their constituent ions. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) dissociates into H+ and Cl- ions.
Hydrogen Ions (H+):
The presence of these hydrogen ions (H+) in solution is what gives acids their acidic properties, according to Doubtnut.
Water’s Role:
Water molecules polarize and surround the acid molecules, weakening the bonds and facilitating the dissociation into ions. No H+ without water:
In the absence of water, acids cannot dissociate and release H+ ions, so they do not show acidic behavior.