Acids have hydrogen ions (H⁺). When an acid dissolves in water, it releases these hydrogen ions. This is what gives acids their characteristic properties, such as their sour taste and ability to react with metals and bases. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) releases hydrogen ions when it dissolves in water, forming H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions. The presence of these hydrogen ions is what makes a solution acidic.
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