MCAT General Chemistry Question 148: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT general chemistry practice tests

Test Information

Question: 148

13. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an amphoteric species?

  • A. Amphoteric species can act as an acid or a base, depending on its environment.
  • B. Amphoteric species can act as an oxidizing or reducing agent, depending on its environment.
  • C. Amphoteric species are sometimes amphiprotic.
  • D. Amphoteric species are always nonpolar.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

An amphoteric species is one that can act either as an acid or a base, depending on its environment. Proton transfers are classic oxidation-reduction reactions, so choices (A) and (B) are true. Choice (C) is true because many amphoteric species, such as water and bicarbonate, can either donate or accept a proton. Choice (D) is false, and thus the correct answer because amphoteric species can be either polar or nonpolar in nature.

Previous       Next