Bases

In chemistry, bases are substances that have a pH greater than 7. They are the opposite of acids, which have a pH lower than 7. Bases are also known as alkaline substances. They have a bitter taste and are slippery to the touch. Some common examples of bases include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and ammonia (NH3).

Properties of Bases

• Bases turn red litmus paper blue.
• They are proton acceptors, meaning they can accept hydrogen ions (H+) in a chemical reaction.
• Many bases are also good conductors of electricity when dissolved in water, as they produce hydroxide ions (OH-) which allow the flow of electric current.
• They have a soapy or slippery feel.

Common Bases

Uses of Bases

Bases have various industrial and household uses. Some common applications include:

• Manufacture of soaps and detergents
• Neutralizing acidic substances
• Cleaning and disinfecting
• Controlling pH in agricultural practices

Study Guide

To study bases, it's important to understand their properties, common examples, and uses. Here are some key points to focus on:

1. Define bases and their characteristics.
2. Learn to identify bases using indicators such as litmus paper.
3. Understand the concept of pH and how bases contribute to basic solutions.
4. Memorize common examples of bases and their chemical formulas.
5. Explore the various applications of bases in everyday life and industries.