Which species may react chemically with water molecules?

The correct response focuses on the behavior of weak acids and bases in an aqueous environment. When weak acids dissolve in water, they partially ionize, establishing an equilibrium between the undissociated acid and its ions. This reaction illustrates how weak acids can interact with water molecules, releasing hydrogen ions (H⁺) which contribute to the acidity of the solution.

Similarly, weak bases, such as ammonia (NH₃), can react with water to produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻) through a process called hydrolysis. This demonstrates their ability to engage in chemical reactions with water, altering the pH of the solution.

In contrast, strong acids dissociate completely in water, which does not reflect the same type of chemical interaction as weak acids and bases. Although ionic compounds may dissolve in water, not all of them will react chemically with water in the same way—many simply remain as ions without undergoing a significant reaction. Nonpolar solvents, on the other hand, do not react with water at all due to their inability to form hydrogen bonds or interact with water molecules. Thus, the most accurate choice regarding species that can chemically react with water is weak acids and bases.