Difference Between Acid and Alkaline

Chemistry
2023-05-05T14:36:47+00:00

Difference Between Acid and Alkaline

Introduction

Worldwide presence In chemistry, there is a lot of talk about acids and alkalis. Both are substances that are used in different areas, such as medicine, the food industry, agriculture, among others. However, it is important to know the differences between the two to know how they work and which is the best option for every situation.

Acid

An acid is a substance that has a pH less than 7. This means that it is a substance that has a greater amount of hydrogen ions (H+) in its composition. Acids can be very corrosive and dangerous to health in high concentrations. For example, sulfuric acid is a very strong acid that can cause skin burns.

Acid Examples

  • Hydrochloric acid
  • Sulfuric acid
  • Acetic Acid
  • Citric acid

Alkaline

Unlike acids, a substance is alkaline when its pH is greater than 7. This indicates that it has a greater amount of hydroxyl ions (OH-) in the composition. Alkaline substances are known for His properties alkalizing and disinfectants. Most often, they are used to clean surfaces and eliminate bacteria.

Examples of alkali

  • Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)
  • Baking soda (baking soda)
  • Potassium hydroxide
  • Calcium hydroxide (lime)

Differences between acid and alkaline

As explained above, the main difference between acidic and alkaline is the pH. While acids have a pH less than 7, alkalines have a pH greater than 7. In addition, acids are corrosive and hazardous to health at high concentrations, while alkalines are known for their disinfecting and alkalizing properties.

Conclusions

In conclusion, it is important to know the differences between acid and alkaline in order to use them appropriately and safely. Know when to use one or the other can do the difference in different situations of daily life, such as in home cleaning, in agriculture and in the food industry.

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