Acid & Base Basics
This type of substance donates H⁺ ions.
Acid
Why do acids conduct electricity in water?
Because they produce ions (H₃O⁺) that carry charge.
If pH = 11, is the solution acidic or basic?
Basic
What is the conjugate acid of OH⁻?
H₂O
Why is lemon juice acidic?
Because it contains citric acid.
This type of substance accepts H⁺ ions.
Base
A solution turns blue litmus red and reacts with metals. What type of substance is it and why?
An acid, because it shows typical acid properties.
If [H₃O⁺] increases, what happens to pH?
pH decreases
What is the conjugate base of H₃O⁺?
H₂O
Why do farmers sometimes add lime (CaCO₃) to soil?
To reduce acidity (neutralize soil).
H⁺ cannot exist alone in water; it forms this ion.
hydronium (H₃O⁺)
An unknown solution reacts with metals and produces gas.
Acids because acids react with metals to produce hydrogen gas.
Which is more acidic: pH 2 or pH 6?
pH 2
In this reaction:
H₂SO₄ → HSO₄⁻ + H⁺
What is HSO₄⁻?
Conjugate base
Why does soap help remove grease?
Because it’s basic and breaks down oils
A reaction involving transfer of H⁺ ions.
acid-base reaction
What property allows acids to react with metals?
Their ability to donate H⁺ ions
If pH = 7, what are [H₃O⁺] and [OH⁻]?
Both are 1 × 10⁻⁷
Can a substance be both acid and base in different reactions?
Yes (amphiprotic)
Why can acid rain damage buildings?
Because acids react with materials like limestone.
An acid that donates two protons
diprotic acid?
Why are aqueous (water) solutions needed for conductivity?
Because ions must be free to move.
If pOH = 3, what is pH?
11 (14 − 3)
Why are conjugate pairs important?
They show how substances change after gaining/losing H⁺
Why are strong bases used in drain cleaners?
Because they break down organic material (hair, grease).