5.

5 acid and alkali

OH-

p H VALUE
The degree of acidity or alkalinity of a substance can be expressed by its pH value. It ranges from 0 to 14.

p H VALUE
The smaller the pH, the more acidic the substance. The bigger the pH value, the more alkaline the substance.

Properties of acid

Examples Hydrochloric acid Sulphuric acid Nitric acid Acetic acid (vinegar)

1. Has a sour taste 2. Is corrosive 3. Turns blue litmus paper red 4. Reacts with active metals to produce hydrogen gas 5. Reacts with carbonates to produce carbon dioxide gas 6. Has a pH value less than 7

Properties of alkali
Sodium hydroxide Potassium hydroxide Calcium hydroxide (lime water) Ammonia solution

Examples

1. Has a bitter taste 2. Feels soapy to touch 3. Is corrosive 4. Turns red litmus paper blue 5. Reacts with ammonium salts to produce a pungent gas called ammonia gas 6. Has a pH value more than 7

The role of water in acids & alkali

Acids and alkali only show their properties in the presence of water. Water dissolves acids & alkalis and releases the ions responsible for the acidity or alkalinity.

Acidic & alkaline substances in daily life

Uses of acids & alkalis

Neutralisation
A process in which the right amounts of acid and alkali are mixed to produce a neutral solution of salt and water.

Acids + Alkali

Salt + Water

Neutralisation removes the acidity & alkalinity of the substances. The pH value for the products of neutralisation is 7.

neutralisation
The salt produced depends on the acid & alkali that react.

neutralisation

titration

Application of neutralisation

Neutralisation produces various types of salt which are used extensively in food flavouring, production of fertilizer, gunpowder, glass and paint.