Salts

Salts are ionic compounds that are formed when an acid reacts with a base. They are composed of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). The most common salt is sodium chloride, which is commonly known as table salt.

Formation of Salts

Salts are formed through a chemical reaction known as neutralization. In this reaction, an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. The general equation for this reaction is:

Acid + Base → Salt + Water

Properties of Salts

- Salts are crystalline solids at room temperature. - They have high melting and boiling points. - Many salts are soluble in water, but some are insoluble. - They conduct electricity when dissolved in water or melted. - They have a characteristic taste, depending on the specific salt.

Uses of Salts

- Food preservation: Salt is commonly used to preserve food by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. - Water softening: Salts such as sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate are used to soften hard water by removing calcium and magnesium ions. - De-icing: Salts like calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used to de-ice roads and walkways during winter. - Health and nutrition: Many salts, particularly those containing iodine, are essential for human health and nutrition.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying salts:

1. Understand the formation of salts through neutralization reactions.
2. Be able to identify the cations and anions in different salts.
3. Learn the properties of salts, including their solubility and conductivity.
4. Explore the various uses of salts in everyday life.
5. Practice writing and balancing chemical equations for salt formation reactions.

[Salts] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Acids, bases and saltsScience • Seventh Grade