Acid

From Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An acid, or simply HA, is a something that, when dissolved in water, has a pH less than 7.0. Specifically, the definition of an acid is a substance that donates a hydrogen ion (H+) to another substance, which is called a base. Common acids include acetic acid (vinegar}, citric acid (in fruit), and sulfuric acid (used in batteries).

[edit] Properties of an Acid

Warning picture used with dangerous acids.
Warning picture used with dangerous acids.

Acids can have a lot of different properties depending on their molecular structure, but most acids share a few characteristics. Most acids taste sour when eaten, sting the skin when touched, will corrode (or eat away at) metals, and can be used as a reactant during electrolysis. Very concentrated acids will burn the skin mildly to severely, and can cause serious damage quickly. Chemical burns like this need medical attention.

[edit] Acids and Bases

Acids and Bases can combine with each other and cancel each other's effects. This is named neutralisation.