Chapter summary
Theories of Acids and Bases, at a glance
Choose the definition that explains the reaction: aqueous ions, proton transfer or electron-pair donation.
A-Level 9476 (2026-2027)
Quick revision
Revisit the essentials, then return to an explanation when you need it.
| Theory | Ask |
|---|---|
| Arrhenius | Does it increase H+(aq) or OH-(aq)? |
| Bronsted-Lowry | Which species donates a proton, and which accepts it? |
| Lewis | Where is the donated electron pair, and which species accepts it? |
A conjugate pair differs by one H+. Water can be acid or base depending on its partner. BF3 accepting a lone pair from NH3 shows why acid-base chemistry is broader than aqueous neutralisation.