amphoteric

[ am-fuh-ter-ik ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. capable of functioning either as an acid or as a base.

amphoteric

/ ˌæmfəˈtɛrɪk /

adjective

1. chem able to function as either a base or an acid Alsoamphiprotic

amphoteric

/ ăm′fə-tĕr′ĭk /

1. Capable of reacting chemically as either an acid or a base. Water, ammonia, and the hydroxides of certain metals are amphoteric.

Word History and Origins

Origin of amphoteric¹

1840–50; < Greek amphóter ( os ) (comparative of ámphō both; cognate with Latin ambō ) + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of amphoteric¹

C19: from Greek amphoteros each of two (from amphō both) + -ic

Example Sentences

In regard to the indications of the amphoteric character of stronger acids, see Chapter XV.

From Project Gutenberg

Bodies of this kind are known as "amphoteric electrolytes," since they yield both positive and negative ions, if dissociated.

From Project Gutenberg