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Explain using various acid-base theories (Bronsted Lowry, Lewis, Arrhenius) why the solutions of aluminum and zinc nitrate are acidic.

I know why an acid is an acid is in general, but I'm not sure if there is supposed to be a special condition when NO3 is present or something.

1 answer

Let's hope the subscripts and superscripts come out right. If not, I'll repost using the usual formating.
Al^+3 exists as the hexahydrate; i.e., as
Al(H2O)63+. Zn 2+ ion is a hydrate, also, but with 4 H2O molecules instead of 6.
Al(H2O)63+ ==> Al(H2O)5(OH)2+ + H+.
Aluminum hexahydrate donated a proton; therefore, it is an acid