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The Difference Between Acid and Base
Jun
7
2011
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Answer #1
In chemistry, acid and base are the most common chemical characteristics that one encounters among liquids; with the exception of distilled water (of course) that is just simply water. While vinegar and liquid on citrus fruits are acidic; soap solution, ammonia, and lye are example of basic liquids. So what sets the difference between the two?
There are theories that define the difference between acid and base that includes Arrhenius Theory which states that “acids are substances which produce hydrogen ions in a solution” and that “bases are substances which produce hydroxide ions”. When mixed with water, acids tend to increase the concentration of hydrogen atoms while bases decrease it by means of attracting the bare protons within the mixture by its negative charge. Together, they can produce water by neutralizing each other’s hydrogen and hydroxide ions.
Bronsted-Lowry Theory also adds that “an acid is a proton (hydrogen ion) DONOR”, whereas “a base is a proton ACCEPTOR” in connection to Lewis Theory which states that “an acid is an electron pair acceptor” and “a base is an electron pair donor”. But all these theories are based on the molecular difference of acid and base. There are other distinguishing factors to consider with regard to determining the differences between the two.
The most common method used by scientist to determine whether a liquid is basic or acidic is by the use of litmus paper. When a blue litmus paper (with pH above 8.2) is turned into red, it is acidic. In contrast, a red litmus paper (with pH below 4.5) will turn blue if the liquid is basic.
Another acid-based indicator used in liquid is through the use of a chemical compound called phenolphthalein. If the liquid is acidic, the solution remains colorless, however if it is basic it will turn pink.
Other physical differences between acids and base are that acidic liquids are sour to the taste and basic liquids are bitter. While bases are slippery and slimy to touch, an acid may sting an open wound or cut.