Base

Definition

A base is a substance that can accept hydrogen ions (protons) or more generally, donate a pair of valence electrons. Bases typically have a pH greater than 7 and are often characterized by their bitter taste and slippery feel.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bases react with acids to form water and salts in neutralization reactions.
2. Common examples of bases include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonia (NH₃).
3. Bases turn red litmus paper blue, indicating their alkaline nature.
4. In aqueous solutions, bases produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
5. The strength of a base is determined by its ability to dissociate in water; strong bases dissociate completely while weak bases do not.

Review Questions

• What happens when a base reacts with an acid?
• Provide an example of a strong base and describe its properties.
• How do bases affect litmus paper?

Related terms

Acid: A substance that donates hydrogen ions (protons) or accepts electron pairs. Acids have a pH less than 7.

Neutralization Reaction: A chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react quantitatively with each other to form water and a salt.

pH Scale:

A scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution, ranging from 0 to 14, with values below 7 indicating acidity and above 7 indicating alkalinity.