What makes a compound a base?

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!

1 answer

The correct answer is:

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

A compound is considered a base if it increases the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) in a solution. Bases typically have a pH greater than 7. Therefore, while option b refers to the pH of bases, the defining characteristic is the production of hydroxide ions. Options a and d do not accurately describe what makes a compound a base.