Here's why:
* Acids are proton donors: Acids donate hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water. This is the defining characteristic of an acid.
* Bases are hydroxyl ion producers: Bases, on the other hand, release hydroxyl ions (OH-) when dissolved in water.
* Water's role: Water molecules can act as both acids and bases. When an acid is dissolved in water, it donates a proton (H+) to a water molecule, forming hydronium ions (H3O+).
In summary: Acids release hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water, not hydroxyl ions (OH-).
