Definition

This word describes a substance that can act both like an acid and like a base in chemical reactions.

Example

Water is considered amphoteric because it can either donate a proton or accept one depending on the situation.

Conversation

Did you know that water is considered amphoteric?

Really? I didn't know that!

Yeah, it can act both as an acid and a base.

That's pretty cool! It makes water even more interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amphoteric → It is formed from "ampho-" (from Greek "amphoteros", meaning both or on both sides) and "-teric" (from Greek "terikos", relating to). The word describes a substance that can act as both an acid and a base, thus relating to both sides of the chemical spectrum.

Memory Tip

Think of 'both sides' ('ampho-') when remembering that 'amphoteric' refers to a substance that can behave like both an acid and a base.

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