7.1.6

Properties & Effects of Acids

Test yourself

Acids, Bases & Salts: Properties and Effects of Acids

Acids have different effects on indicators, which identify whether they are acids or bases. Bases neutralise acids and whereas alkalis are soluble bases.

Illustrative background for Properties of acidsIllustrative background for Properties of acids ?? "content

Properties of acids

  • Acids turn blue litmus paper red.
  • Acids change thymolphthalein from blue to colourless.
  • Acids turn methyl orange indicator from orange to red.
    • These colour changes show acids release hydrogen ions (H+).
Illustrative background for Understanding bases and alkalisIllustrative background for Understanding bases and alkalis ?? "content

Understanding bases and alkalis

  • Bases are metal oxides or metal hydroxides.
  • Alkalis are bases that dissolve in water.
  • Alkalis release hydroxide ions (OH-) in water.
    • Examples of alkalis: sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide.
  • Bases neutralise acids to form salt and water.
Illustrative background for Using indicators in chemistryIllustrative background for Using indicators in chemistry ?? "content

Using indicators in chemistry

  • Chemists use indicators like litmus to test unknown substances.
    • Acids show distinct colour changes with different indicators.
    • Indicators are useful for identifying acid strength and neutralisation.
  • Understanding acid effects aids in safe chemical handling.
Illustrative background for Summary of acid and base effectsIllustrative background for Summary of acid and base effects ?? "content

Summary of acid and base effects

  • Acids change litmus red, thymolphthalein clear, and methyl orange red.
  • Bases neutralise acids and can be soluble (alkalis) or insoluble.
  • Indicators reveal the presence of acids or bases in solutions.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium