Neutralisation Reactions: Basics

Specification Point 2.32:

Know that Alkalis can Neutralise Acids

Neutralisation

Neutralisation: A Reaction in which Acidity or Alkalinity is removed.

When an alkali is added to an acid, the pH of the mixture rises as the alkali reacts with it forming a neutral solution.
When an acid is added to an alkali, the pH of the mixture falls as the acid reacts with it forming a neutral solution.

Neutralisation Reaction:

A Neutralisation reaction involving an acid and base (alkali) will always produce a salt and water:

Acid + Base (Alkali) → Salt + Water

When the H⁺ Ions from an acid react with the OH^– ions from an alkali, this forms water, causing the neutral solution to be formed:

H⁺ (aq) + OH^– (aq) → H₂O (l)

The name of the Salt produced can be predicted:

Salt from acid reacted, Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry

Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry Notes

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Author: Jamie

Jamie got a First class degree in Chemistry from Oxford University before going on to teach chemistry full time as a professional tutor. He’s put together these handy revision notes to match the Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry specification so you can learn exactly what you need to know for your exams.