Question:

In the reaction given below, water behaves as \(NH_3 + H_2O \rightleftharpoons NH_4^+ + OH^-\)

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Water is amphoteric and can act as either an acid or a base depending on the other reactant.
Updated On: Jun 9, 2026
  • A Lewis base
  • A Bronsted-Lowry acid
  • A Bronsted-Lowry base
  • A Lewis acid
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: According to the Bronsted-Lowry theory, an acid is a proton (\(H^+\)) donor, and a base is a proton acceptor.

Step 1: Analyze the species transformation.
The chemical equation is: \[ NH_3 + H_2O \rightleftharpoons NH_4^+ + OH^- \] \(NH_3\) accepts a proton to become \(NH_4^+\), acting as a Bronsted-Lowry base. \(H_2O\) donates a proton to become \(OH^-\), acting as a Bronsted-Lowry acid.

Step 2: Identify the role of water.
Since water acts as a proton donor in this specific chemical reaction: Water behaves as a Bronsted-Lowry acid. \[ \boxed{\text{A Bronsted-Lowry acid}} \]
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