Definitions/Properties

Acids contain at least one hydrogen ion (H⁺), and they generate hydronium ions (H₃O+) by reacting with water, as shown:

H⁺ + H₂O-->H₃O⁺

Acids are described as sour or tart, have a pH less than 7, sting when they touch your skin, and turn litmus paper red.

Bases contain at least one hydroxide ion (OH^-).  They are slippery to the touch, taste bitter, have a pH greater than 7, and turn litmus paper blue.

Sample Problem 1

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