BASICS OF ACIDS AND BASES

KEY TERMS

• Acids and bases are ionic compounds they are plentiful in the world
• Acids typically made from elements called halogens, these are non-metals.
• Active metals are also referred to as alkali metals
• Dissociate is when acids or bases dissolve in the water
• Acids contain hydrogen ions, taste sour, adds hydrogen ions, they are corrosive, produces a salt and water when reacted with bases, and it produces hydrogen gas when reacted with metals.
• Bases contains hydroxide ions, taste bitter, adds hydroxide ions, it is corrosive and feels slippery, produces a salt and water when reacted with acids, and there are no gases produced.

THE PH SCALE

• Used to measure how acidic or basic a compound is
• It measures the amount of hydrogen and hydroxide irons in water solution
• The more hydrogen the more acidic a compound is
• The more hydroxide the more basic the compound is

BUFFERS

• Compound enables the solution to resist ph changes when an acid or base is added
• Acidic buffers made from weak acids and one of its salts

NEUTRALIZATION AND SALTS

• A neutral compound is not acidic or basic
• Pure water is an example
• Salt is also neutral product
• The best real life example would be using an antacid to calm upset stomachs

HAZARDS OF ACIDS AND BASES

• Both are very corrosive and can cause severe burns
• Eyes and lungs are very susceptible to corrosive compounds
• Air pollutants can all produce harmful effects in the respiratory system

ACID-BASE SAFETY PRACTICES

• Wear protective equipment
• Use a well ventilated area or use a fume hood
• Stored in appropriate containers
• Never directly smell the acid or base
• NEVER taste the chemicals UNLESS teacher says so!