In this chapter, you will learn to: / classify substances as acids, bases or neutral / use the pH scale to investigate the concentration of acids and alkalis
/ make an acid–base indicator from plant material / measure pH changes in neutralisation reactions.
Acids
An acid is a chemical substance. The word ‘acid’ comes from the Latin acidus, which means ‘sour’. We come into contact with harmless acids every day in food and drink. For example: • ethanoic acid in vinegar • citric acid in citrus fruits, e.g. lemons and limes • ascorbic acid in oranges and kiwi fruits
:Fig. 22.1 Everyday acids ? TEST TUBE
1. Research which acids are found in: a. tea b. fizzy drinks
Bases A base is a substance that is the chemical opposite of an acid. Everyday bases include: • sodium fluoride in toothpaste • sodium carbonate in washing soda • magnesium hydroxide in indigestion remedies