6.2 NEUTRALISATION

• The reaction between an acid and an alkali produced salt and water. This reaction is called neutralisation. During neutralisation, an acid loses its acidity while an alkali loses its alkalinity. The method used tp carry out this reaction is titration
• Hydrochloric acid + Sodium hydroxide = Sodium chloride + Water
• Sulphuric acid + Potassium hydroxide = Potassium sulphate + water
• Nitric acid + Sodium hydroxide = Sodium nitrate + Water
• Toothpastes contain alkaline substance that can neutralise the acid produced by the bacteria
• Face cleaners which are alkaline will make the facial skin dry. Therefore, acidic toners are used to neutralise the skin
• Healthy hair has a slightly acidic condition, however hair shampoos make hair slightly alkaline. Therefore, a mildly acidic hair conditioner can neutralise the resdue of the shampoo on hair and make the hair smooth and healthy
• Acidic soil can be treated by adding slaked lime which is alkaline in order for plants to grow well
• Fabric softeners are acidic, thus they reduce the pH level of fabrics which become alkaline after being washed with detergents
• Acidic waste substances from factories are treated with alkalis before being discharged into the river