Acids
Definition
An acid is a substance that donates a proton (H+) in a chemical reaction.
Properties of Acids
- Acids have a sour taste.
- Acids turn blue litmus paper red.
- Acids react with metals to produce hydrogen gas.
- Acids react with bases to form salts and water (neutralization reaction).
pH Scale
The pH scale is a measure of acidity or basicity of a solution. Acids have a pH less than 7.
Common Acids
| Acid | Formula |
|---|---|
| Hydrochloric acid | HCl |
| Sulfuric acid | H2SO4 |
| Nitric acid | HNO3 |
| Acetic acid | CH3COOH |
Acid-Base Reactions
When an acid reacts with a base, a neutralization reaction occurs, forming a salt and water. The general equation for the reaction is:
Common Uses of Acids
- Hydrochloric acid is used in the production of PVC and in the pickling of steel.
- Sulfuric acid is used in car batteries and in the production of fertilizers.
- Citric acid is used as a food preservative and flavoring agent.
◂Chemistry Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Lab Investigations/Scientific Method
Worksheet/Answer key
Lab Investigations/Scientific Method 
Worksheet/Answer key
Lab Investigations/Scientific Method Worksheet/Answer key
Lab Investigations/Scientific Method
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Earth and Space Science (ES)
Earth Processes
Explain how Earth's fluid outer core creates the magnetosphere and how this helps protect both humans and technology (such as satellites) from solar winds.