What happens when an acid reacts with a base?

JAMB Chemistry 2023 72 views

What happens when an acid reacts with a base?

  1. The acid releases oxygen gas.
  2. The acid releases nitrogen gas.
  3. The acid and base neutralize each other to form salt and water. ✓
  4. The acid and base react to produce a metal oxide.

Explanation

When acids and bases react, they neutralize each other in a process that produces salt and water. The hydrogen ions from the acid combine with hydroxide ions from the base to form water.

The general equation is: acid + base → salt + water. For example, hydrochloric acid plus sodium hydroxide makes sodium chloride salt and water.

Neutralization reactions release heat and bring the pH closer to 7. This reaction is used in antacids to neutralize excess stomach acid.

pastquestions.ng