Acids, Bases and Indicators

Syllabus tag: KCSE | Chemistry | Form 1 | Topic 3 Acids, Bases and Indicators

Lesson objectives

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:

• Describe the properties of acids and bases and name common examples.
• Prepare and use indicators, including the universal indicator and pH scale.
• Write equations for the reactions of acids with metals, carbonates and bases.
• State the uses of acids and bases and describe neutralisation.

Summary

An acid produces hydrogen ions (H⁺) in water, tastes sour and turns litmus red. A base accepts hydrogen ions, and a soluble base is an alkali, producing hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and turning litmus blue. The pH scale runs 0 to 14, with 7 neutral. Acid and base react in neutralisation to give a salt and water.