Indicate whether each of the following statements is characteristic of an acid, a base, or both:
a. neutralizes acids

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Recall the definition of acids and bases. Acids are substances that donate protons (H⁺ ions) in a reaction, while bases are substances that accept protons or donate hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
2. Step 2: Understand the concept of neutralization. Neutralization is a chemical reaction in which an acid reacts with a base to produce water and a salt. This process involves the combination of H⁺ ions from the acid and OH⁻ ions from the base to form water (H₂O).
3. Step 3: Analyze the statement 'neutralizes acids.' Since neutralization involves the reaction of an acid with a base, it is characteristic of a base. Bases neutralize acids by reacting with their H⁺ ions.
4. Step 4: Conclude that the statement 'neutralizes acids' is a characteristic of a base, as bases are the substances that counteract or neutralize the effects of acids in a reaction.
5. Step 5: If needed, provide an example for better understanding. For instance, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a base, neutralizes hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form water and sodium chloride (NaCl).

Key Concepts

Acids

Acids are substances that can donate protons (H+) in a chemical reaction. They typically have a sour taste and can turn blue litmus paper red. Acids react with bases to form water and salts in a neutralization reaction, which is a key characteristic of their behavior in chemistry.

Bases

Bases are substances that can accept protons or donate hydroxide ions (OH-) in a chemical reaction. They usually have a bitter taste and can turn red litmus paper blue. Bases neutralize acids, resulting in the formation of water and salts, which is a fundamental property of bases in acid-base chemistry.

Neutralization Reaction

A neutralization reaction occurs when an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. This process typically results in the cancellation of the acidic and basic properties, leading to a solution that is closer to neutral pH. Understanding this reaction is essential for determining the characteristics of acids and bases in various contexts.