What is the Difference Between Bronsted Lowry and Arrhenius?

The main difference between Bronsted-Lowry and Arrhenius acids and bases lies in their definitions and the scope of their applications. Here are the key differences:

• Arrhenius Acids and Bases:
• Arrhenius acids are substances that increase the number of hydronium ions (H+) when dissolved in water.
• Arrhenius bases are substances that increase the number of hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water.
• This definition is specific to substances dissolved in water and does not apply to other solvents.
• Bronsted-Lowry Acids and Bases:
• Bronsted-Lowry acids are substances that donate a proton (H+) to another substance, acting as proton donors.
• Bronsted-Lowry bases are substances that accept a proton (H+) from another substance, acting as proton acceptors.
• This definition is more general and inclusive, as it applies to any substance, regardless of the solvent.

In summary, the Arrhenius definition of acids and bases is limited to substances dissolved in water, while the Bronsted-Lowry definition is more general and applies to any substance in any solvent, as long as the substance can donate or accept a proton.

Comparative Table: Bronsted Lowry vs Arrhenius

The main differences between Bronsted-Lowry and Arrhenius acids and bases are:

1. Definition:

• Arrhenius: An acid is a compound that dissolves in water to produce hydrogen ions (H+), and a base is a compound that dissolves in water to produce hydroxide ions (OH-).
• Bronsted-Lowry: An acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+), and a base is a substance that accepts a proton (H+).

1. Solvent:

• Arrhenius: The definition is limited to cases where water is the solvent.
• Bronsted-Lowry: The definition does not rely on water being the solvent and can be applied to any solvent.

Here is a summary table of the differences:

In summary, the Bronsted-Lowry definition is more general and can be applied to any solvent, while the Arrhenius definition is limited to cases where water is the solvent. Additionally, the Arrhenius definition focuses on the ions produced in water, whereas the Bronsted-Lowry definition focuses on the proton donor and acceptor abilities of substances.