Neutralization Reactions: Acids and Bases React to Form Salts and Water
Definition
Neutralization
Neutralization is a chemical reaction where an acid reacts with a base to produce a salt and water.
During this reaction, acidic hydrogen ions ($ \text{H}^+ $) combine with basic hydroxide ions ($ \text{OH}^- $) to form water ($ \text{H}_2\text{O} $).
General Equation for Neutralization:
$$
\text{Acid} + \text{Base} \rightarrow \text{Salt} + \text{Water}
$$
- This reaction is typically exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
- The specific salt formed depends on the acid and base involved.
Exploring Neutralization Through Examples
Let’s break down two common types of neutralization reactions: acids reacting with metal oxides and acids reacting with hydroxide bases.
Acid + Metal Oxide
- Metal oxides are basic in nature.
- When an acid reacts with a metal oxide, the products are a salt and water.
$$
\text{2HCl (aq)} + \text{MgO (s)} \rightarrow \text{MgCl}_2 \text{(aq)} + \text{H}_2\text{O (l)}
$$
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
- Reactants: Hydrochloric acid $ \text{HCl} $ provides $ \text{H}^+ $ ions, and magnesium oxide $ \text{MgO} $ provides $ \text{O}^{2-} $ ions.
- Reaction: The $ \text{H}^+ $ ions combine with $ \text{O}^{2-} $ ions to form water $ \text{H}_2\text{O} $, while the $ \text{Mg}^{2+} $ ions from the oxide pair with $ \text{Cl}^- $ ions to form magnesium chloride $ \text{MgCl}_2 $.
- Products: Salt $ \text{MgCl}_2 $ and water $ \text{H}_2\text{O} $ are formed.
Acid + Base
When an acid reacts with a base (commonly a hydroxide), the products are also a salt and water.
