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What does a Bronsted-Lowry base do?

  1. Accepts electrons

  2. Donates protons

  3. Accepts protons

  4. Releases energy

The correct answer is: Accepts protons

A Bronsted-Lowry base is defined as a substance that accepts protons (H⁺ ions) in a chemical reaction. This concept is fundamental in acid-base chemistry and highlights the role of certain substances in facilitating the transfer of protons between reactants. When a Bronsted-Lowry base accepts a proton, it often forms a conjugate acid, demonstrating the interrelated nature of acids and bases in chemical reactions. The choice that identifies the action of accepting protons aligns perfectly with this definition, as it characterizes the behavior of bases in various chemical contexts. This understanding is essential for predicting the outcome of acid-base reactions, particularly in organic chemistry and biochemistry, where proton transfer plays a crucial role in metabolic processes and reaction mechanisms. In the context of the other options: accepting electrons pertains more to Lewis acids and bases rather than the Bronsted-Lowry framework; donating protons is indicative of an acid, not a base; and releasing energy does not specifically relate to the definitions of acids and bases in this context. Thus, the option that describes the action of a Bronsted-Lowry base is accurately focused on its role as a proton acceptor.