Difference between Acids and Bases

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Let me share with you a difference between Acids and Bases.                  

AspectAcidsBases
IntroductionAcid is a substance that donate protons (H⁺ ions)Base is a substances that accept protons (H⁺ ions)
pH rangeLess than 7Greater than 7
TasteSourBitter
TouchCorrosive or irritatingSlippery or soapy
Electrical conductivityConduct electricity in solutionConduct electricity in solution
Reaction with indicatorsTurns blue litmus paper redTurns red litmus paper blue
Reaction with metalsMay react with certain metals to produce hydrogen gasDo not react with most metals
Ionization stateCan be strong or weak acidsCan be strong or weak bases
Effect on litmus paperTurns litmus paper redTurns litmus paper blue
Reaction with carbonatesProduce carbon dioxide gasDo not react with carbonates
Examples·        HCl

·         H₂SO₄

·        Citric acid

·        NaOH

·        KOH

·        NH₃