Question

(a) Define neutralization reaction with an example.

(b) Give a balanced equation for the reaction.

(c) Give three applications of neutralization reaction.

Answer 1

(a) Neutralization reaction - A reaction in which H⁺ ions of acid react with the OH^- (hydroxide) ions of the base to form salt and water as the only product is called a neutralization reaction.

(b) Chemical equation- Hydrochloric acid (HCl) and Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) react to form salt and water.

$$\begin{gathered} \mathrm{NaOH}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)+\mathrm{HCl}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)\to \mathrm{NaCl}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)+{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right) \\ \mathrm{base}\mathrm{acid}\mathrm{salt}\mathrm{water} \end{gathered}$$

(c) Application of neutralization reaction -

1. When someone is stung by a bee or red ant, formic acid enters our body and we feel pain. Applying slaked lime[Ca(OH)₂] or baking soda (NaHCO₃) on the spot gives relief.
2. When the soil is acidic and unfavourable for plant growth then limestone is added to neutralize the acid.
3. Due to the secretion of HCl, which creates acidic nature in the stomach that can be neutralized by taking sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO₃).