describing something that can behave like two different things — in particular, the manner in which proteins accept or donate electrons and thus react with other molecules as an acidic or alkaline substance.
Used to describe a compound, such as H2O or Al(OH)3, that can act as either an acid or a base.
Reacting chemically as an acid to strong bases and as a base to strong acids.
having characteristics of both an acid and a base and capable of reacting as either
A compound that can act as a base and an acid.
A term applied to oxides and hydroxides which can act basic toward strong acids and acidic toward strong alkalis. Substances which can dissociate electrolytically to produce hydrogen or hydroxyl ions according to conditions.
Possessing both basic and acidic properties.
ampholyte. A substance that can act as either an acid or a base in a reaction. For example, aluminum hydroxide can neutralize mineral acids ( Al(OH)3 + 3 HCl = AlCl3 + 3 H2O ) or strong bases ( Al(OH)3 + 3 NaOH = Na3AlO3 + 3 H2O).
Having both acidic and basic characteristics.
Reacts as either an acid or a base. In the presence of an acid, amphoteric molecules react as bases. In the presence of bases, they react as acids.
See Ampholyte. Capable of acting both as an acid and as a base. Amphoteric membranes may contain positive and negatively charged surface groups but carry a net neutral charge (for example, Biodyne® A membrane).
A substance that acts as an acid or base.