1. Acids and Bases
SNC2P

2. What do Lemon Juice and Vinegar have in common?

3. What do Baking Soda and Drain Cleaner have in common?

4. These substances can be grouped as either acids or bases
These substances can be grouped as either acids or bases. Chemists use acids and bases as a way to classify substances. Acids and bases are common chemical compounds that can be grouped according to their chemical and physical properties.

5. Acids
Substances classified as acids have specific properties. The chemical formula contains a Hydrogen Ion (H+) at the start – example HCl (hydrochloric acid). The chemical name includes the word “acid”. Acids are soluble in water. Acids dissociate into hydrogen ions H+ when dissolved in water. They taste sour. They will conduct electricity in solution.

6. Acids
You must be careful with acids. Acids are corrosive and can be dangerous to the environment

7. Common Acids Acetic Acid (Vinegar) HC2H3O2(aq) Citric Acid HC6H7O7(aq)
Ascorbic Acid
HC6H7O6(aq)
Carbonic Acid
H2CO3(aq)
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)
HC9H7O4(aq)
Salad Dressings
Lemons, Limes, etc.
Vitamin C (Oranges, etc.)
Carbonated Drinks
Asprin

8. Bases
Substances classified as bases have specific properties. The chemical formula usually contains a hydroxide ion (OH-) at the end – example sodium hydroxide, NaOH. The chemical name includes the word “hydroxide”. Ammonia is one exception to this rule. Ammonia, NH3 is a base and does not contain the hydroxide ion.

9. Bases
Bases dissociate into hydroxide ions, OH- when dissolved in water. They taste bitter. They will feel slippery to touch. They will conduct electricity in solution. Chemists use the word ALKALINE to describe solutions that are basic.

10. Common Bases Sodium hydroxide NaOH(aq) Potassium hydroxide KOH(aq)
Aluminum hydroxide
Al(OH)3(aq)
Ammonium hydroxide
NH4OH (aq)
Sodium bicarbonate
NaHCO3(aq)
Cleaners, making paper
Soap, cosmetics
Heartburn medications
Window cleaners
Used to make baked goods rise.

11. Indicators:
Tasting and feeling are not tests used by chemists to determine whether or not a substance is an acid or a base. Both can be extremely dangerous depending on the substance.
Instead, chemists use a dye called an indicator that changes colour depending on what the solution is.