What does the term amphoteric refer to?

The term amphoteric describes a compound that can act as both an acid and a base, depending on the surrounding conditions. This dual capability is a defining characteristic of amphoteric substances, allowing them to react with both acids and bases.

In aqueous solutions, for example, an amphoteric substance can donate protons (H+) to act as an acid or accept protons to behave like a base. A classic example of an amphoteric compound is water (H2O), which can both donate a proton to become a hydroxide ion (OH-) and accept a proton to become a hydronium ion (H3O+).

Understanding amphoteric behavior is crucial in various chemical processes, including neutralization reactions and biochemical pathways. This versatility plays a significant role in maintaining pH balance in biological systems and in various industrial applications.