Acids and bases have distinct characteristics that set them apart:
Properties of Acids:
- Taste: Acids usually have a sour taste (e.g., lemon juice).
- pH Level: They have a pH less than 7.
- Reactivity: Acids react with metals to produce hydrogen gas and can also react with bases in neutralization reactions.
- Indicators: They turn blue litmus paper red.
- Conductivity: Acids conduct electricity when dissolved in water due to the presence of ions.
Properties of Bases:
- Taste: Bases often have a bitter taste (e.g., baking soda).
- pH Level: They have a pH greater than 7.
- Reactivity: Bases can react with acids in neutralization reactions and can also react with fats and oils in saponification.
- Indicators: They turn red litmus paper blue.
- Texture: Bases feel slippery or soapy when dissolved in water.
In Summary: Both acids and bases can react with each other, but they differ in taste, pH, reactivity, how they affect indicators, and their physical textures. Acids are sour and can donate protons (H+), while bases are bitter and can accept protons (OH-). Understanding these differences is key in chemistry!
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