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:
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.