Understanding Acids in Science

Acids have a sweet taste and are non-conductive.

Acids have a sour taste, conduct electricity, react with bases, turn blue litmus red, and release H+ ions in solution.

Acids do not react with bases and have a slippery feel.

Acids turn red litmus blue and release OH- ions in solution.

Sour

Sweet

Salty

Bitter

0 to 6.9

6.9 to 10

7 to 14

-1 to 0

Food preservation

Water treatment

Metal cleaning

pH adjustment

Sulfuric acid is commonly used in the production of fertilizers and in chemical manufacturing.

Fuel for combustion engines

Food preservative

Cleaning agent for household surfaces

Acetic acid

Lactic acid

Ascorbic acid

Citric acid

Baking soda

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Vinegar, cleaning products, pickles, and sauces.

C6H12O6

C6H8O7

C7H10O7

C5H6O5

Acids react with metals to form only heat and no other products.

Acids dissolve metals without any reaction.

Acids react with metals to produce oxygen gas and water.

Acids react with metals to produce a salt and hydrogen gas.

Acids are primarily used for nutrient absorption.

Acids increase the pH level in the stomach.

Acids aid in digestion and protect against pathogens.

Acids neutralize stomach bile.