Acids and bases

Question 1

What is an acid?

Answer 1

An acid is a substance that releases hydrogen ions (H+) into am aqueous solution. It is a molecular compound that is made up of atoms from different elements.

Question 2

What are the properties of acids?

Answer 2

Acids are:
- corrosive
- have a sour taste
- turn blue litmus paper red
- react with some metals
- conduct electricity
- neutralised by bases

Question 3

What are bases and alkalis?

Answer 3

Bases are substances that release hydroxide ions. (OH-) Alkalis are bases that can be dissolved into water, which forms an alkaline solution.

Question 4

What are the properties of bases?

Answer 4

Bases are:
- caustic
- soapy, slimy feel
- turn red litmus paper blue
- bitter taste
- conduct electricity
- neutralised by acids

Question 5

What is the pH scale?

Answer 5

The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. A base has a pH > 7, and an acid has a pH of < 7.