What makes a compound a base?

Question

a
It dissolves into Hydrogen ions in water (H+ or H3O+)
b
It has a pH lower than 7
c
It dissolves into Hydroxide ions in water (OH-)
d
It cannot be mixed with oil

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

c) It dissolves into Hydroxide ions in water (OH-)

A compound is classified as a base if it produces hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water. Bases typically have a pH greater than 7. Options a and b do not accurately describe bases, as option a refers to acids (which produce H+ ions), and option b describes acidic solutions. Option d isn't a defining characteristic of bases.