Question

describe an acid or base in terms of its relationship to protons

Answer 1

Acids are donors of protons (H+) and bases are acceptors of protons.
For example:
1) hydrochloric acid (HCl) in reaction with water give one proton to water and become chloride anion (Cl-).
2) ammonia (NH3) Is base, in reaction with water accepts one protone and become ammonium cation (NH4+).