Which of the following is true about amphoteric substances?

Amphoteric substances are unique in that they possess the ability to act both as acids and bases, depending on the situation. This dual behavior allows them to neutralize both acidic and basic substances. For instance, an amphoteric compound can donate protons (H+) to a base, functioning as an acid, or accept protons from an acid, functioning as a base.

The capacity of amphoteric substances to engage in acid-base reactions makes them important in many chemical processes. A common example of an amphoteric substance is water, which can either accept a proton to form hydronium ions (acting as an acid) or donate a proton to form hydroxide ions (acting as a base).

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately describe amphoteric substances. They are characterized by their ability to interact with both acids and bases, rather than being limited to neutralizing strong acids or functioning as bases only in neutral conditions. Their participation in acid-base reactions is essential for many processes in chemistry, contradicting the assertion that they do not participate at all. Thus, the correct understanding of amphoteric substances aligns with their ability to neutralize both acids and bases.