Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A conjugate acid is the particle formed when a base gains a hydrogen ion, and a conjugate base is what remains after an acid has donated a proton during a chemical reaction.
Related terms
Bronsted-Lowry Acid: An acid is defined as any substance that can donate a proton (H+).
Bronsted-Lowry Base: A base is any substance that can accept or receive a proton (H+).
Amphoteric Substance: This refers to substances like water and certain amino acids that can act as both acids and bases depending on their environment.