Chapter 13, Problem 1QC

How do acids and bases differ from other substances?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The identification of acids and bases from other substances.

Concept Introduction:

Acids are chemical substances that are capable of donating hydrogen atoms or of accepting an electron. Bases are chemical substances that are capable of accepting hydrogen atoms or donating an electron.

Explanation of Solution

Acids were found to be sour in taste, burning sensation along with being sticky to touch. Acids are substances that produce hydrogen ions $\left({\text{H}}^{+}\right)$ when dissolved in water. On releasing protons, acids result in the formation of a conjugate base. Acids are have a pH value less than $7$ .

While bases were found to be bitter in taste, slippery to touch. Bases produce hydroxide ions $\left({\text{OH}}^{-}\right)$ when in an aqueous medium. On accepting protons, bases result in the formation of a conjugate acid. The pH values shown by them are above $7$ .

Conclusion

Therefore, acids are known to be proton donors which are sour in taste, have a burning sensation and feel sticky to touch. While bases are known to be proton acceptors that have a bitter taste and feel slippery to touch.