Question

Explain the neutralisation reaction with an example and its utility in daily life.

Hint:

Neutralisation Reaction: {Acid + Base → Salt + Water}

Answer 1

Concept: When an acid reacts with a base, the acidic and basic properties cancel each other and form salt and water. This type of reaction is known as a neutralisation reaction.
Step 1:Definition of Neutralisation Reaction A neutralisation reaction is defined as a chemical reaction in which an acid reacts with a base to produce salt and water. \[ \text{Acid + \text{Base \rightarrow \text{Salt + \text{Water \] Example: \[ HCl + NaOH \rightarrow NaCl + H_2O \] In this reaction, hydrochloric acid reacts with sodium hydroxide to form sodium chloride (salt) and water.
Step 2:Utility in Daily Life

• Indigestion: Excess acid in the stomach is neutralised by taking antacids such as magnesium hydroxide.
• Soil treatment: Farmers add lime (a base) to acidic soil to neutralise it and improve crop production.
• Tooth decay: Toothpaste is basic in nature and neutralises the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
• Industrial waste treatment: Basic or acidic industrial wastes are neutralised before releasing them into the environment.