Question

1. what are the main differences between acids and bases? (2 points)
2. how does the ph scale help identify whether a substance is an acid or a base? (2 points)
3. give three examples of acids and three examples of bases found in your home or school. (3 points)

a.
b.
c.

1. why do you think ph balance is important in the human body? (2 points)
2. how does the reaction between vinegar and baking soda demonstrate an acid - base reaction? (2 points)
3. what are some environmental problems caused by acids or bases? (2 points)
4. how can you safely test whether a substance is acidic or basic in a laboratory? (2 points)

Explanation:

1. Acids taste sour, turn blue litmus red, and release H⁺ ions. Bases taste bitter, turn red litmus blue, and release OH⁻ ions.
2. pH < 7: acid; pH = 7: neutral; pH > 7: base.
3. Acids: lemon juice, vinegar, orange juice. Bases: baking soda, soap, ammonia.
4. Enzymes work best at specific pH. Imbalance causes health issues.
5. Vinegar (acid) + baking soda (base) → CO₂ (gas), showing neutralization.
6. Acid rain damages forests, lakes. Bases can harm aquatic life if in excess.
7. Use litmus paper (red/blue), pH strips, or indicators (phenolphthalein).

Answer:

1. Acids: sour taste, blue litmus red, H⁺ release. Bases: bitter taste, red litmus blue, OH⁻ release.
2. pH < 7 (acid), pH = 7 (neutral), pH > 7 (base).
3. Acids: lemon juice, vinegar, orange juice. Bases: baking soda, soap, ammonia.
4. Enzymes need specific pH; imbalance causes health problems.
5. Vinegar (acid) + baking soda (base) → CO₂ (gas), showing neutralization.
6. Acid rain (forests, lakes). Bases (aquatic life harm).
7. Litmus paper, pH strips, indicators (e.g., phenolphthalein).