Concept:
The Arrhenius theory was proposed by the Swedish scientist Svante Arrhenius. It explains the nature of acids and bases based on the ions they produce when dissolved in water.
Step 1:Arrhenius Definition of Acids
According to Arrhenius, an acid is a substance that produces hydrogen ions (\(H^+\)) when dissolved in water.
Example:
\[
HCl \rightarrow H^+ + Cl^-
\]
In this reaction, hydrochloric acid dissociates in water to produce hydrogen ions.
Step 2:Arrhenius Definition of Bases
According to Arrhenius, a base is a substance that produces hydroxide ions (\(OH^-\)) when dissolved in water.
Example:
\[
NaOH \rightarrow Na^+ + OH^-
\]
Here, sodium hydroxide dissociates in water to produce hydroxide ions.