### Acids and Bases (General) Acids and bases are generally recognized by their characteristic properties
Explanation level
This topic introduces acids and bases — their characteristic properties and the two major theories that explain them: the Arrhenius theory and the Bronsted-Lowry theory.
Definition
Acids and Bases (General)
Acids and bases are generally recognized by their characteristic properties.
Simple explanation: Acids and bases are two important classes of compounds with distinct properties.
Arrhenius Acid
An acid is a substance that ionizes in water to produce H⁺ ions.
Simple explanation: An Arrhenius acid releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.
Arrhenius Base
A base is a substance that ionizes in water to produce OH⁻ ions.
Simple explanation: An Arrhenius base releases hydroxide ions (OH⁻) when dissolved in water.
Bronsted-Lowry Acid
An acid is a proton donor.
Simple explanation: A Bronsted-Lowry acid gives away a proton (H⁺).
Bronsted-Lowry Base
A base is a proton acceptor.
Simple explanation: A Bronsted-Lowry base accepts a proton (H⁺).
Drain cleaner, antacid tablets, baking powder, soda contain bases.
From "acid indigestion" to "acid rain," the word acid appears frequently in news and advertisements.
Which substances are called acids and which are bases
How they are classified
What happens when an acid reacts with a base
Why we use lemon juice on fish
What is meant by the pH of a solution like acid rain
Simple explanation: Acids and bases are everywhere in daily life — in food, medicine, cleaning products, and the environment.
Core Concept
Table 10.1: Some Characteristic Properties of Acids and Bases
Sr. No.
Property
Acid
Base
1
Taste
Sour
Bitter
2
Effect on blue litmus
Turns red
No effect
3
Effect on red litmus
No effect
Turns blue
4
Effect on skin
Corrosive
Corrosive
5
Electrical conductivity
Aqueous solutions conduct electricity
Aqueous solutions conduct electricity
Simple explanation: Acids taste sour and turn blue litmus red. Bases taste bitter and turn red litmus blue. Both are corrosive and conduct electricity in water.
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