1. Acids, Bases and the pH scale

2. pH scale pH stands for “potential of Hydrogen” The pH scale is a range of values from 0-14 that express the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.  The more hydrogen ions, the lower the number on the pH scale.

3. Acids & Bases on the pH scale  Acids range from 0-6.9  Acids have the most amount of hydrogen ions.  Bases range from 7.1-14  Bases have the least amount of hydrogen ions.  7 on the scale is pH neutral (neither acid nor base)

4. Acids  An Acid is a chemical compound, that, when dissolved in water has a pH of less than 7.  Acids taste sour, react with metals and carbonates and will turn blue litmus paper red.  Acids are corrosive- they eat away at other materials, especially metals.  Acids contain Hydrogen ions (H+)

5. Bases  Bases are chemical compounds that, when dissolved in water, have a pH of above 7.  Bases taste bitter, feel slippery and turn red litmus paper blue.  Bases are corrosive- they also eat away materials (Acids are NOT the only dangerous substances on the pH scale!!)  Bases contain Hydroxide ions (OH-)

6. Uses for Acids:  Acids are naturally in many of the foods we eat :Tomatoes, lemons, oranges, and even leafy green veggies!  Acids are also used in many fertilizers.  Acids can also be found in most batteries

7. Uses for Bases  Cement is made using bases  Many cleaning solutions used in the home are bases (drain cleaner, glass cleaner, bleach, soap)  Bases can also be found in baked goods such as breads, cakes, and cookies!

8. Neutralizing Acids & Bases  The reaction between acids and bases is a called neutralization.  The neutralization of acids and bases depends on the identities, volumes and concentrations of the reactants.  Salt and water will form as a result of acids and bases neutralizing completely.