Zuren, basen en neutralisatiereacties

Acids are compounds that dissociate into hydrogen ions and the corresponding anions in aqueous solutions. They are also referred to as proton donors because the H⁺  is a lone proton.

When acids dissolve, they increase the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution, lowering the pH.

In the stomach, for instance, hydrochloric acid dissociates into a proton and a chloride ion, maintaining the acidic pH essential for digestion.

Bases are substances that increase the concentration of hydroxide ions in a solution. When bases dissolve, they decrease the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution, increasing the pH.

Common bases, like sodium hydroxide, dissociate into hydroxide ions and corresponding cations in aqueous solutions.

Non-hydroxide bases, such as ammonia, accept protons from water, producing ammonium ions and hydroxide ions.

When an acid and a base are mixed, they undergo a neutralization reaction, producing salt and water. For example, an antacid, a base such as magnesium hydroxide, reacts with stomach acid to create magnesium chloride and water, relieving acid reflux.