What is a Base

Question

What is a base?
A) A molecule with a pH of 7
B) A molecule that releases hydroxide ions when added to water
C) A molecule that releases hydrogen atoms when added to water
D) A molecule with a pH less than 7

Accepted Answer

An acid is a molecule that releases a hydrogen ion when added to water. A base is a molecule that will accept the hydrogen ion, often by releasing a hydroxide ion when added to water. Acids have a pH less than 7. Bases have a pH greater than 7.