📚 What is a Base? A Simple Chemistry Explanation
In chemistry, a base is a substance that can accept hydrogen ions (protons) or donate electrons. Think of it as the opposite of an acid. Bases often feel slippery to the touch and can turn red litmus paper blue. Strong bases are corrosive and should be handled with care.
🧪 Key Characteristics of Bases
- 🌊Accepts Protons: Bases readily accept $H^+$ ions (protons) in chemical reactions.
- 🎁Donates Electrons: Bases can donate electrons, acting as Lewis bases.
- 📍pH Value: Bases typically have a pH greater than 7.
- 💧Slippery Feel: Many bases have a slippery feel when dissolved in water.
- 🎨Litmus Paper Test: Bases turn red litmus paper blue.
- 🔥Neutralization: Bases neutralize acids, forming water and a salt.
⚗️ Examples of Common Bases
- 🧼Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): Used in soap making and drain cleaners.
- 🥛Ammonia (NH3): Used in fertilizers and cleaning products.
- 💊Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)2): Used in cement and agriculture.
- 🌿Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): Used in liquid soaps and batteries.
📝 Acid-Base Theories
- ⚛️ Arrhenius Theory: A base increases the concentration of hydroxide ions ($OH^−$) in water.
- 🤝 Bronsted-Lowry Theory: A base is a proton ($H^+$) acceptor.
- 💡 Lewis Theory: A base is an electron-pair donor.
➗ Calculating Base Concentrations
To calculate the concentration of a base, you typically use molarity ($M$), which is moles of solute per liter of solution. You might also use $pOH$, which is related to $pH$ by the equation: $pH + pOH = 14$.
⛑️ Safety Precautions
- 🧤 Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling bases.
- 🌬️ Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Avoid inhaling fumes from strong bases.
- 🚿 Rinse Immediately: If a base comes into contact with your skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
❓ Practice Quiz
- 🤔 What is the key characteristic of a base according to the Bronsted-Lowry theory?
- ✍️ Write the chemical formula for sodium hydroxide.
- ❓ What color does a base turn red litmus paper?