* Acids release hydrogen ions (H+) in solution.
* Bases release hydroxide ions (OH-) in solution.
When acids and bases react, the hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions combine to form water (H2O). This reaction is called neutralization.
Example:
* Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is an acid that releases H+ ions in solution.
* Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a base that releases OH- ions in solution.
When these two react, they produce sodium chloride (NaCl), also known as table salt, and water (H2O):
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O
The formation of water neutralizes the acidic and basic properties of the solution.
