My chemistry assignment was basically a work of art today. I was instructed to answer these questions "in my own words." Let all teachers know that it is very dangerous to give a writer that kind of freewill.
Why are acids called proton doners?
Acids are nice substances that give H+ ions away to Bases as presents for Christmas and other holidays, such as Pi day and Mole Day. Because H+ ions are really just protons, acids are called proton donors, although a much more creative name for them would be "Base Benefactors."
Why can't hydrogen ions exist by themselves?
In short, because hydrogen ions take "sharing is caring" to a whole new level. If water molecules shows up, hydrogen ions get really clingy and want to share electrons with them in order to form hydronium ions, or H3O. However, H+ ions are okay hanging out by themselves in gas form. (But basically everybody would rather be by themselves when they are feeling gassy. Otherwise it's just awkward.)
Is a negative pH possible?
Yes. If the molarity of the hydrogen ions is higher than one, you will get a negative value for your pH. But that's okay, even though it seems completely crazy.
Also, apparently even the strongest acids don't dissociate completely at high concentrations, which is probably the most inspirational thing I have read today.
How can you tell if a compound is an acid?
I get asked this a lot. Usually I just tell people, "When you know, you know." with as much of a cryptic aura as possible. But I only do that because I'm embarrassed about my own ignorance. Now I'll never have to pretend again!
There are a few different ways to distinguish whether a compound is an acid. You can use an indicator, which will change color to expose acids, or you can dissolve some of the compound in distilled water and see if the concentration of H+ ions rises, or you can use a pH meter to see if the compound's pH is lower than 7.
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