Which of the following is a property of good bases?

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Study for the MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems Exam. Practice with multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Excel in your exam and achieve your target score!

Good bases are characterized by their ability to donate a lone pair of electrons to accept protons (H+). This property allows them to engage in reactions where they can neutralize acids. The presence of a lone pair of electrons is crucial for a substance to act as a base according to the Brønsted-Lowry theory, which defines bases as proton acceptors. Additionally, the ability to donate these electron pairs enhances their nucleophilicity, making them react vigorously with electrophiles.

While other characteristics may describe certain bases, possessing a lone pair of electrons is fundamental and universal among effective bases. For example, many common bases such as ammonia and hydroxide ions utilize their lone pairs to function as bases in chemical reactions. This intrinsic nature of good bases to have lone pairs of electrons is what defines their fundamental behavior in acid-base chemistry.

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