Acids and Bases
Chemical substances are classified by Robert Boyle into three types namely acids, bases and salts.
Definition and properties of acids and bases:
Definition and properties of acids:
The substance which when added to water produces hydrogen ions H+ is called acid.
The strength of an acid is based on the concentration of H+ ions in the solution. The more H+ the stronger the acid.
Most of the acids taste sour. The word acid has been derived from a latin word "acidus" meaning sour.
The solution in which blue litmus turns red is acid.
pH number less than 7 is considered an acid.
Examples of acids: vinegar, citrus fruit juices, hydrochloric acid HCl
Definition and properties of bases:
The substance which when added to water produces hydroxide ions OH- is called base.
Bases have bitter taste.
Bases feel soapy.
The solution in which red litmus turns blue is base.
pH number greater than 7 is considered a base.
Examples of bases: sodium hydroxide, ammonia