amphoteric Definition
- 1having the ability to react as both an acid and a base
- 2able to act as either an acid or a base depending on the conditions
Using amphoteric: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "amphoteric" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Water is an amphoteric substance.
Example
Zinc oxide is an amphoteric compound.
Example
The amphoteric nature of amino acids allows them to act as both acids and bases.
Origins of amphoteric
from Greek 'amphoteros', meaning 'each of two'
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Summary: amphoteric in Brief
'Amphoteric' [am-fuh-ter-ik] refers to a substance's ability to react as both an acid and a base. It is used to describe compounds like zinc oxide and amino acids, which can act as either an acid or a base depending on the conditions. Water is also an example of an amphoteric substance.
