Chemistry — Introduction to Chemistry and Matter + 5 more topics

Chemistry is often called the central science because it connects many other scientific fields like biology, physics, and geology. It's not just about mixing chemicals in a lab; it explains things like why leaves change color, how food cooks, or why medicine works.

Acids and bases are special kinds of solutes. They're defined by how they interact with protons (H+ ions).

An acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+ ion). When an acid dissolves in water, it releases H+ ions, which then combine with water molecules to form hydronium ions (H3O+).

A base is a substance that accepts a proton (H+ ion). When a base dissolves in water, it either releases hydroxide ions (OH-) or directly takes H+ ions from water.