Post Date
June,
28
2024
What is an Alkali?
An alkali is a type of chemical compound that, when dissolved in water, produces hydroxide ions (OH⁻). These compounds are typically bitter in taste, feel slippery to the touch, and turn litmus paper blue.
What is a Base?
A base is a substance that can accept protons (H⁺ ions) or donate pairs of electrons. Alkalis are a subset of bases that specifically dissolve in water to form hydroxide ions.
Common Household Alkalis
Some common household alkalis include:
- Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate): Used in baking and as a cleaning agent.
- Ammonia: Found in cleaning products and used as a household cleaner.
- Soap: Contains alkali salts of fatty acids and is used for cleaning and personal hygiene.
- Milk of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide): Used as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid.
- Lime Water (Calcium Hydroxide): Used in food preparation and as a calcium supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alkalis
- Q: What is the difference between an alkali and a base? A: An alkali is a subset of bases that specifically dissolve in water to produce hydroxide ions.
- Q: How do you identify an alkali? A: Alkalis turn litmus paper blue, feel slippery to the touch, and have a bitter taste.
- Q: What are some examples of household alkalis? A: Examples include baking soda, ammonia, soap, milk of magnesia, and lime water.
- Q: How are alkalis used in everyday life? A: They are used in cleaning products, food preparation, medicine, and personal care products.
- Q: Are all bases alkalis? A: No, only bases that dissolve in water to produce hydroxide ions are considered alkalis.
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