Write the main difference between an acid and a base. With the help of suitable examples
explain the term neutralization and the formation of-
(i) acidic,
(ii) basic and
(iii) neutral salts.

Explanation

Acids are sour in taste and change the colour of the blue litmus to red. Their pH is less
Ther reaction between an acid and a base to give a salt and water is known as a neutralisation
reaction. In general, a neutralisation reaction can be written as
Acid + Base `rarr` Salt + Water
Example: `NaOH (aq) + HCl (aq) rarr NaCl (aq) + H_(2)O(l)`
(i) When neutralisation of a strong acid with a weak base takes place, it leads to the
formation of acidic salt.
Example: `H_(2)SO_(4) +CuO to CuSO_(4) + H_(2)O`
(ii) When neutralisation of a weak acid with a strong base takes place, it leads to the
formation of basic salt.
Example: `NaOH + CH_(3) COOH rarr CH_(3) COONa + H_(2)O`
When neutralisation of a strong acid with a strong base takes place, it leads to the
fromation of neutral salt.
Example: `NaOH + HCl rarr NaCl +H_(2)O`
NaCl is a neutral salt.