Both HCO3- and HS- are amphoteric. Write an equation to show how each substance can act as an acid, and another equation to show how each can act as a base.

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Identify the definition of an amphoteric substance: An amphoteric substance can act as both an acid and a base.

For HCO3^- acting as an acid: Write the equation where HCO3^- donates a proton (H^+) to a base, such as OH^-, forming CO3^2- and H2O.

For HCO3^- acting as a base: Write the equation where HCO3^- accepts a proton (H^+) from an acid, such as H3O^+, forming H2CO3 and H2O.

For HS^- acting as an acid: Write the equation where HS^- donates a proton (H^+) to a base, such as OH^-, forming S^2- and H2O.

For HS^- acting as a base: Write the equation where HS^- accepts a proton (H^+) from an acid, such as H3O^+, forming H2S and H2O.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Amphoteric Substances

Amphoteric substances are compounds that can act as both acids and bases depending on the environment. This dual behavior allows them to either donate protons (H+) in acidic conditions or accept protons in basic conditions. Understanding this property is crucial for predicting the reactions of substances like HCO3- and HS- in various chemical contexts.

Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons between reactants. An acid is defined as a proton donor, while a base is a proton acceptor. In the context of HCO3- and HS-, writing equations that illustrate their behavior as acids and bases requires recognizing how they interact with other species in solution, such as water or other acids and bases.

Chemical Equations

Chemical equations represent the reactants and products in a chemical reaction, providing a concise way to illustrate the changes that occur. For amphoteric substances, writing balanced equations that show their acid and base behavior involves ensuring that the number of atoms and charge is conserved. This skill is essential for accurately depicting the reactions of HCO3- and HS-.