amphoterism

Amphoterism refers to a substance's ability to act as both an acid and a base, depending on the situation. In chemistry, an amphoteric compound can either donate a proton (acting as an acid) or accept a proton (acting as a base). For example, water can behave as an acid by giving away a hydrogen ion or as a base by accepting one, depending on the circumstances. This dual behavior allows amphoteric substances to participate in various chemical reactions, making them versatile in different environments like biological systems and industrial processes.