MCAT General Chemistry Question 148: Answer and Explanation
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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.