Which ion is produced by an Arrhenius base in an aqueous solution?

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Enhance your knowledge and skills for the UCF CHM2046 Chemistry Fundamentals II Test 3. Dive into multiple choice questions with explanations and get confident for success in your exam!

An Arrhenius base is defined as a substance that, when dissolved in water, increases the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) in the solution. This is a fundamental principle of the Arrhenius theory of acids and bases. For example, when sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is dissolved in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions (OH-).

The production of hydroxide ions is what characterizes an Arrhenius base. When these hydroxide ions are present in an aqueous solution, they can neutralize hydronium ions (H3O+) produced by an Arrhenius acid, thereby affecting the pH of the solution.

This understanding is essential for grasping the behavior of bases in aqueous environments and is directly linked to acid-base chemistry, influencing reactions and equilibrium in solutions.