A neutralization reaction involves the reaction of an acid with a base. A base reacts faster with nitric acid than with acetic acid. Which statement explains why?

A. Nitric acid is a strong acid, and acetic acid is a weak base.

B. Nitric acid is a weak acid, and acetic acid is a strong base.

C. Nitric acid is a weak acid, and acetic acid is a strong acid.

D. Nitric acid is a strong acid, and acetic acid is a weak acid.