Lesson 5: Acid & Base Concepts

Acids and bases are very important classes of compounds, and not just to chemists. Some common acidic materials are lemon juice, vinegar, carbonated beverages, toilet bowl cleaners, and automobile battery acid. Some common basic materials are drain cleaners, baking soda, sodium bicarbonate, antacids, lye, and ammonia.

We will look at what properties acids have in common with one another and how to recognize them from their formulas. We will do the same for bases. We will also look at how acids and bases are formed. In addition we will deal with the precautions that should be taken when working with acids and bases in the lab.

The nature of acid-base reactions can be viewed in different ways, but each view holds in common that acids and bases are opposite in their chemical nature and because of this, acids and bases react with one another. We will consider three conceptual views of what causes chemicals to be acids or bases. We will also look at some reactions that convert elements into acids or bases.

Be sure to look at the objectives and assignments for this lesson in "Objectives" to familiarize yourself with what you will be held responsible for. When you have completed the lesson be sure to look at the wrap-up.