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Which common substances are acids according to the Arrhenius theory?
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According to the Arrhenius theory, acids are substances that dissociate in aqueous solution to increase the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺), which exist in water as hydronium ions (H₃O⁺).12
Common substances classified as acids under this theory include:
- Hydrochloric acid (HCl)12
- Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄)12
- Nitric acid (HNO₃)12
- Acetic acid (CH₃COOH)12
- Phosphoric acid3
These substances contain hydrogen atoms that are released as positively charged ions when dissolved in water. While the Arrhenius theory specifically focuses on aqueous solutions, these compounds are recognized for their ability to exhibit typical acidic behaviors, such as reacting with bases to form salts and water.132