Science
Neutralization reactions.
Definition
A neutralization reaction occurs when an acid reacts with a base to produce water and a salt. The H⁺ ions from the acid combine with OH⁻ ions from the base to form water, while the remaining ions form the ionic salt.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H₂O (hydrochloric acid neutralized by sodium hydroxide)
- 2 Antacid tablets (calcium carbonate) neutralizing excess stomach acid
- 3 Treating acid rain-damaged lakes by adding lime (calcium hydroxide)
Key Fact
Acid + Base → Salt + Water.