HO(X)/H(X): where “X” is any element
* if X is more electronegative, then it acts as a bronsted-lowry acid, giving up the H+
* if X is more electropositive, then it acts as a bronsted-lowry base, accepting the H+
* so, nonmetals tend to form acids while metals tend to form bases when dissolved in water
* HCl + H2O -→ Cl- + H3O+
* NaOH + H2O -→ NaH2O + OH- (remember, Na is a spectator ion)
* not all acids completely ionize in water (ex. weak acids or weak bases)