Chemistry – Acids, bases and salts - The characteristic properties of acids and bases | e-Consult

Acids react with bases in a reaction called neutralization. Neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water. The products of this reaction are a salt and water. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to produce sodium chloride (NaCl) and water (H₂O). The general equation is: Acid + Base -> Salt + Water.

The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. A strong acid reacts with a strong base to produce a neutral solution (pH 7). A weak acid reacts with a strong base to produce a basic solution (pH > 7), and vice versa. The rate of neutralization depends on the concentrations of the acid and base. A higher concentration of acid or base will lead to a faster reaction.