Acids, Bases, and pH

Acid Compound that increases the amount of hydrogen ions (H+) that are present Usually starts with hydrogen (H) in their chemical formula Examples: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) Citric acid (H3C6H5O7) Lactic acid (HC3H5O3)

Strong Acids Weak Acids Hydrochloric acid = HCl Sulfuric acid = H2SO4 Same acid in your stomach Sulfuric acid = H2SO4 Car battery acid Nitric acid = HNO3 Used in fertilizers and explosives Weak Acids Acetic acid = HC2H3O2 Acid in vinegar Formic acid = HCOOH Acid in stinging ants Citric acid = H3C6H5O7 Acid in citrus fruits

Base Compound that dissolves in water to increase the amount of hydroxide ions (OH-) that are present Usually have OH in their chemical formula Examples: Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) Ammonia (NH3)

Strong Bases Weak Bases Sodium hydroxide = NaOH Lye; in oven cleaner and drain cleaner Lithium hydroxide = LiOH Used in air purification for space crafts, submarines Weak Bases Ammonia = NH3 In cleaning products; terrible smell

pH Value that is used to express the acidity or alkalinity (basicity) of a solution The pH scale ranges from 0-14 0 is the most acidic (strongest acids) 14 is the most basic (strongest bases) 7 is considered neutral (pure water) Anything less than 7 is an acid Anything greater than 7 is a base pH is a logarithmic scale, which means a small change in pH is a big difference in acidity or alkalinity.

pH Scale

Acid + Base = Water + Salt A reaction between an acid and a base is called a neutralization reaction You get water (H2O) and a salt**** which is a neutral solution. ****If there are equal amounts of the same strength acid and base

Common Acidic and Basic Things Basic (Alkaline) Bleach Soap Antacids Household Cleaners Wasp Stings Acidic Fruit (helps preserve) Marinades (for meats) Lactic acid (converts milk to yogurt) Soda Pop, Coffee Honey Bee Stings Shampoo