acid - base reaction

Acid-base reaction


An acid is a substance that produces hydrogen ions, H+, when dissolved in water.

A base is a substance that produces hydroxide ions, OH–, when dissolved in water.

The neutralization reaction of an acid with a base yields water plus a salt.

OH– ions can come from two sources.
Metal hydroxides are ionic compounds that release OH– ions when they dissolve in water.
Some molecular compounds such as ammonia, can act as bases to produce OH– ions in reactions with water.

Acids generally have a sour taste:
Lemons, oranges, and grapefruit contain citric acid, and sour milk contains lactic acid.

Bases are present in many household cleaning agents, from bar soap to ammonia-based window cleaners

It is a good idea to learn the names and formulas of common acids and bases.

Sulfuric acid, H2SO4, is manufactured in greater quantity worldwide than any other industrial chemical. It is the acid found in automobile batteries, is highly corrosive, and can cause painful burns.
Hydrochloric acid, HCl, or muriatic acid has many industrial applications, including metal cleaning and the manufacture of high-fructose corn syrup. Aqueous HCl is stomach acid in the digestive systems of most mammals.

Phosphoric acid, H3PO4, is used in phosphate fertilizers, and as an additive in foods and toothpastes. The tart taste of many soft drinks is due to the presence of phosphoric acid.
Nitric acid, HNO3 , is a strong oxidizing agent that is used for the manufacture of ammonium nitrate fertilizer and military explosives. When spilled on the skin, it leaves a characteristic yellow coloration because of its reaction with skin proteins.
Acetic acid, CH3CO2H, is the primary constituent of vinegar. It occurs in all living cells and is used in the preparation of solvents, lacquers, and coatings.