Protonation

Protonation refers to the process where a molecule gains a proton (which is a hydrogen ion, H⁺). This typically occurs when a substance interacts with an acid that donates protons. Protonation can change a molecule's charge, structure, and properties, affecting how it reacts or binds with other substances. It is important in many biological and chemical processes, such as enzyme activity and pH regulation. Essentially, protonation alters molecules by attaching a positive charge, influencing their behavior in different environments.