Introduction to Acids and Bases Properties, Types & Everyday Examples

What Are Acids?

Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions (H) when dissolved in water. They taste sour and turn blue litmus paper red. Acids are commonly found in nature and daily life, like lemon juice, vinegar, and curd.

Examples of common acids:

- Hydrochloric acid (HCl)

- Sulphuric acid (H₄SO₄)

- Acetic acid (CH₃COOH)

- Citric acid (found in citrus fruits)

What Are Bases?

Bases are substances that release hydroxide ions (OH^-) in water. They taste bitter, feel soapy to the touch, and turn red litmus paper blue. Bases neutralize acids in chemical reactions.

Examples of common bases:

- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)

- Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂)

- Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂)

- Ammonium hydroxide (NH₄OH)

Properties of Acids

- Sour taste

- Corrosive

- Turn blue litmus red

- React with metals to produce hydrogen gas

- pH value less than 7

- Conduct electricity in aqueous solution

Properties of Bases

- Bitter taste

- Slippery or soapy feel

- Turn red litmus blue

- React with acids to form salt and water

- pH value more than 7

- Conduct electricity in aqueous solution

Everyday Examples of Acids and Bases

Here’s a list of commonly used substances in our homes and the category they belong to:

Substance	Category	Type
Lemon juice	Acid	Citric acid
Vinegar	Acid	Acetic acid
Curd	Acid	Lactic acid
Baking soda	Base	Sodium bicarbonate
Soap	Base	Varies
Toothpaste	Base	Mild base

Importance in Daily Life

Acids and bases play crucial roles in various aspects of life:

- Acids help in digestion (HCl in the stomach)

- Bases are used in soaps and cleaning agents

- Farmers use lime (a base) to reduce soil acidity

- Antacids (bases) are used to neutralize excess stomach acid

- Food preservation and flavoring rely on acids

Quiz: Identify Acid or Base

Try this short quiz to test your understanding:

1. What is the nature of lemon juice?

2. What does soap do to litmus paper?

3. Which has a lower pH – vinegar or baking soda?

4. What is the pH of a neutral solution?

Answer key:

1. Acidic

2. Turns red litmus blue

3. Vinegar

4. 7

Conclusion

Understanding acids and bases is essential for mastering Class 10 Chemistry and applying it in real life. From your kitchen to your classroom, these substances are everywhere!