Definition of Conjugate Base



The conjugate base is a part of Bronsted Lowry's theory of acids and bases and it can be defined as such a chemical species that has an ability to accept a hydrogen ion H+. In a reaction that is between an acid and a base, the base is distinguished as it carries a negative charge i.e. it is an anion.

 


On the other hand, the conjugate acid is that chemical species that donates the H+ ion and it carries a positive charge and hence acts as a cation. The conjugates are formed when the acid loses a hydrogen ion and the base accepts a hydrogen ion.

 


The chemical reaction between an acid and a base:

Acid + Base ⇌ Conjugate Base + Conjugate Acid


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