National League for Nursing (NLN) Science Practice Exam

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A substance that can act as either an acid or a base is described as?

amphoteric.
an isomer.
hydrolytic.
a polymer.

The correct answer is: amphoteric.

A substance that can act as either an acid or a base is described as amphoteric. Amphoteric substances have the unique capability to either donate protons (H+) when acting as an acid or accept protons when acting as a base, depending on the surrounding chemical environment. This dual functionality is significant in various chemical reactions, particularly in biological systems and buffer solutions, where maintaining pH balance is crucial. In contrast, isomers refer to compounds that have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements, affecting their chemical properties. Hydrolytic substances pertain to reactions involving the breakdown of compounds due to the addition of water, which is not related to acidity or basicity. Polymers are large molecules composed of repeating structural units, and while they can showcase acidic or basic properties, the term "amphoteric" specifically identifies those substances that can behave as both acids and bases.