Neutralisation

Key Notes :

Definition of Neutralization:

  • Neutralization is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of water and a salt.

Basic Reaction:

  • Acid + Base → Salt + Water
  • Example: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to form sodium chloride (NaCl) and water (H₂O). HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O

pH Change:

  • In neutralization, the pH of the solution moves closer to 7, which is neutral. The acidic or basic nature of the solution is reduced.

Importance of Neutralization:

  • Neutralization reactions are important in everyday life, such as in antacids neutralizing stomach acid, or in agriculture where lime (a base) is added to acidic soil.

Exothermic Reaction:

  • Neutralization reactions are usually exothermic, meaning they release heat.

Examples in Everyday Life:

  • Antacids: Neutralize excess stomach acid to relieve heartburn.
  • Toothpaste: Neutralizes acids in the mouth to prevent tooth decay.
  • Soil Treatment: Lime is used to neutralize acidic soils, improving plant growth.

Indicators in Neutralization:

  • Indicators like litmus paper or phenolphthalein can be used to show the pH change during neutralization.

Applications in Industry:

  • Neutralization is used in waste treatment processes to neutralize acidic or basic waste before discharge.

Balanced Equations:

  • Understanding and writing balanced chemical equations for neutralization reactions is essential for understanding the process.

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