Chemistry

Properties of Acids and Bases

Chemistry

It's frequently possible to tell acids and bases apart from one another by some of their easily observed chemical and physical properties. A table of these properties is shown here:

Property Acid Base
TasteSour (vinegar)Bitter (baking soda)
SmellFrequently burns noseUsually no smell (except NH3!)
TextureStickySlippery
ReactivityFrequently react with metals to form H2React with many oils and fats
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Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Chemistry © 2003 by Ian Guch. All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Used by arrangement with Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

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