Here's why:
* Bases are substances that can accept hydrogen ions (protons) in solution. They are also known as alkalines.
* Acids, on the other hand, are substances that donate hydrogen ions (protons) in solution.
The combination of a base and an acid results in a neutralization reaction, where the hydrogen ions from the acid react with the base, forming water (H2O) and a salt.
Example:
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong base. When it reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), the following reaction occurs:
NaOH + HCl → NaCl + H2O
Here, the hydroxide ion (OH-) from NaOH accepts a hydrogen ion (H+) from HCl, forming water. The remaining ions, Na+ and Cl-, form sodium chloride (NaCl).