Brønsted acid-base theory

Brønsted acid-base theory explains how acids and bases interact through the transfer of protons (H+ ions). An acid is a substance that donates a proton, while a base is one that accepts a proton. When an acid and a base react, the acid donates its proton to the base. This concept helps us understand many chemical reactions, such as how vinegar (acid) reacts with baking soda (base). The theory highlights the dynamic exchange of protons, emphasizing that acids and bases are essentially partners in proton transfer, which influences many properties and behaviors of substances.