Question

Look at the characteristics listed, select the ones that most accurately describe an acid.
Responses

Produces hydronium ions when it dissolves in water
Produces hydronium ions when it dissolves in water

Corrosive
Corrosive

Sour tasting
Sour tasting

Sweet tasting
Sweet tasting

Produces hydroxide ions when it dissolves in water
Produces hydroxide ions when it dissolves in water

Sting eyes and skin

Answer 1

The characteristics that most accurately describe an acid are:

1. **Produces hydronium ions when it dissolves in water** - This is a defining property of acids.
2. **Corrosive** - Many acids can be corrosive to materials and living tissues.
3. **Sour tasting** - This is a common characteristic of many acids (e.g., citric acid in lemons).
4. **Sting eyes and skin** - Many acids can cause irritation and a stinging sensation upon contact.

The characteristics "Sweet tasting" and "Produces hydroxide ions when it dissolves in water" do not describe acids; the latter describes bases.