
polyprotic acids
Polyprotic acids are acids that can donate multiple hydrogen ions (protons) in a chemical reaction. Each hydrogen atom can be released separately, often at different stages, with varying strength. For example, sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) can release two protons, one after the other. These acids undergo multiple dissociation steps, which affects their acidity and how they react in solution. Understanding polyprotic acids helps in fields like chemistry and biology, where precise control of pH and reactions involving proton transfer are important.