Acids & Bases

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being neutral.

Front

What is an acid?

Back

An acid is a substance that donates protons (H+) in a solution, typically has a sour taste, and turns blue litmus paper red.

Front

What is a base?

Back

A base is a substance that accepts protons (H+) or donates hydroxide ions (OH-) in a solution, usually has a bitter taste, and turns red litmus paper blue.

Front

What is a neutral solution?

Back

A neutral solution has a pH of 7, meaning it is neither acidic nor basic, like pure water.

Front

What happens to litmus paper in an acidic solution?

Back

Litmus paper turns red when placed in an acidic solution.

Front

What happens to litmus paper in a basic solution?

Back

Litmus paper turns blue when placed in a basic solution.

Front

What is the strongest acid?

Back

The strongest acid is typically sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which has a very low pH.

Front

What is the weakest base?

Back

Blood is considered a weak base with a pH of about 7.4.

Front

What is the characteristic taste of acids?

Back

Acids typically have a sour taste.

Front

What is the characteristic taste of bases?

Back

Bases typically have a bitter taste.