Acids react due to their ability to donate protons (H⁺ ions) in chemical reactions. This property is defined by the Brønsted-Lowry acid-base theory, which states that acids are proton donors and bases are proton acceptors.

How Acids React:

With Bases: Acids neutralize bases to form water and a salt.

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With Carbonates: Acids react with carbonates to produce carbon dioxide water

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With Hydroxides: Acids react with hydroxides to form water and salt, similar to reactions with bases.

Why Acids React:

Stability: Acids often have highly reactive hydrogen ions. When they donate these ions, they form more stable compounds or ions.

Energy Release: The reactions often release energy, making them favorable. The formation of water or gas can drive the reaction forward.

Electrostatic Interactions: The attraction between positively charged protons and negatively charged bases can promote reactions.

Equilibrium: Many acid-base reactions reach equilibrium, where the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate. This allows acids to participate in dynamic chemical processes.