Acids, Bases, and Salts
Introduction
Acids, bases, and salts are three important groups of chemical
substances we use in daily life and study in chemistry. They are
different in their taste, properties, and reactions.
1. Acids
Definition:
Acids are substances that have a sour taste and turn blue
litmus red. They produce hydrogen ions (H⁺) in water.
Examples:
, ● Natural Acids: Lemon juice (citric acid), vinegar (acetic
acid), curd (lactic acid).
● Mineral Acids: Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Sulfuric acid
(H₂SO₄), Nitric acid (HNO₃).
Uses:
● Hydrochloric acid is used for cleaning metals.
● Sulfuric acid is used in car batteries.
● Citric acid is used in food and drinks.
2. Bases
Definition:
Bases are substances that have a bitter taste and a soapy feel.
They turn red litmus blue and produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in
water.
Examples:
● Common Bases: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Potassium
hydroxide (KOH), Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).
● Mild Bases: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
Introduction
Acids, bases, and salts are three important groups of chemical
substances we use in daily life and study in chemistry. They are
different in their taste, properties, and reactions.
1. Acids
Definition:
Acids are substances that have a sour taste and turn blue
litmus red. They produce hydrogen ions (H⁺) in water.
Examples:
, ● Natural Acids: Lemon juice (citric acid), vinegar (acetic
acid), curd (lactic acid).
● Mineral Acids: Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Sulfuric acid
(H₂SO₄), Nitric acid (HNO₃).
Uses:
● Hydrochloric acid is used for cleaning metals.
● Sulfuric acid is used in car batteries.
● Citric acid is used in food and drinks.
2. Bases
Definition:
Bases are substances that have a bitter taste and a soapy feel.
They turn red litmus blue and produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in
water.
Examples:
● Common Bases: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Potassium
hydroxide (KOH), Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).
● Mild Bases: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
