Chapter 11.2: Bases and alkalis

Question 1

What are bases, and what are alkalis?

Answer 1

• Bases are metal oxides or hydroxides that react with an acid to form salt and water only
• Soluble bases are alkalis

Question 2

Properties of alkalis

Answer 2

1) React with acids to form salt and water only

2) React with ammonium salts to produce salt, water and ammonia gas

3) React with a solution of a metal salt to give a metal hydroxide and another metal salt

4) Feel soapy and taste bitter

5) Turn red litmus paper blue