General properties of acids and bases

Front

What is an acid?

Back

An acid is a substance that donates protons (H+) in a solution and typically has a sour taste. Examples include hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid.

Front

What is a base?

Back

A base is a substance that accepts protons (H+) or produces hydroxide ions (OH-) in a solution. Bases usually have a bitter taste and feel slippery. Examples include sodium hydroxide and ammonia.

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being neutral.

Front

What happens in a neutralization reaction?

Back

In a neutralization reaction, an acid reacts with a base to produce a salt and water.

Front

What is a strong acid?

Back

A strong acid is one that completely dissociates in water, releasing all of its hydrogen ions. Examples include sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.

Front

What is a weak acid?

Back

A weak acid only partially dissociates in solution, meaning not all of its hydrogen ions are released. Examples include acetic acid and citric acid.

Front

What is a strong base?

Back

A strong base completely dissociates in water, producing a high concentration of hydroxide ions. Examples include sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.

Front

What is a weak base?

Back

A weak base only partially dissociates in solution, resulting in a lower concentration of hydroxide ions. Examples include ammonia and sodium bicarbonate.

Front

What is the role of indicators in acid-base chemistry?

Back

Indicators are substances that change color in response to changes in pH, helping to determine whether a solution is acidic or basic.

Front

What is the taste of acids?

Back

Acids typically have a sour taste.