Which statement defines an Arrhenius base?

Which statement defines an Arrhenius base?

• A. Increases H+ concentration in solution
• B. Increases OH- concentration in solution
• C. Decreases H+ concentration in solution
• D. Reacts with acids to form salts

Answer: (B)

Arrhenius bases are substances that, when dissolved in water, increase the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH−) in the solution. This occurs because they dissociate to release OH−, as in sodium hydroxide: NaOH → Na+ + OH−. The key trait is the production of OH−, which makes the solution basic. The option stating an increase in H+ concentration would define an Arrhenius acid, not a base. While bases can neutralize acids to form salts, the defining feature here is the creation of hydroxide ions in solution.

Arrhenius bases are substances that, when dissolved in water, increase the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH−) in the solution. This occurs because they dissociate to release OH−, as in sodium hydroxide: NaOH → Na+ + OH−. The key trait is the production of OH−, which makes the solution basic. The option stating an increase in H+ concentration would define an Arrhenius acid, not a base. While bases can neutralize acids to form salts, the defining feature here is the creation of hydroxide ions in solution.