How are bases typically defined?

Bases are typically defined as compounds that produce hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water. This definition aligns with the Arrhenius concept of acids and bases, which states that acids are substances that increase the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in solution, while bases increase the concentration of hydroxide ions.

When a base dissolves in water, it dissociates to release OH- ions into the solution. For example, when sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is added to water, it dissociates to produce Na+ and OH- ions, thereby increasing the pH of the solution and making it more basic. This foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding acid-base reactions and the role bases play in neutralizing acids.

Other definitions of bases, such as the Brønsted-Lowry theory, extend the concept to include any substance that can accept protons (H+), but the production of OH- ions remains a key characteristic in many definitions. Recognizing this fundamental property helps clarify the behavior of bases in chemical reactions and their applications in various fields, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science.