Definition: Amphoteric refers to a substance that has two or more charges, typically in solution form but can be solid, liquid, gas, or even in the form of crystals. This property allows it to interact with other substances in various ways, depending on their chemical and physical properties. The exact definition is quite complex, involving the concept of charge separation. For instance, a phosphorous (P) atom with an electronegative carbon (C) can donate its electron to another carbon, resulting in the formation of a molecule known as orthophosphorus (O). This example illustrates how amphoteric properties can be utilized for various chemical reactions or applications. Amphoteric substances are crucial in fields such as chemistry, physics, and biology, where they often play vital roles in electrochemical and biological processes.