Arrhenius Theory

The Arrhenius theory is an explanation given for acids and bases in chemistry that defines as such: an acid will dissociate in water to release positively-charged hydrogen ions (H⁺), and a base will dissociate in water to release negatively-charged hydroxide (OH^-) ions. The theory was introduced in 1887 by Svante Arrhenius, a Swedish scientist. While the idea does give helpful insight on the functional nature of acids and bases, it is outdated and inaccurate on its theory regarding the dissociation of acids; hydrogen ions, which are merely protons, don't exist by themselves in solution due to their instability and thus immediately bond to nearby un-dissociated molecules.

See also[edit]

• Bronsted-Lowry theory

External links[edit]

• Arrhenius theory - Encyclopedia Britannica