Yes, alkali reacts with acid.
Understanding Acid-Alkali Reactions
An acid–alkali reaction is a specific type of chemical reaction where an acid reacts with an alkali. According to the provided reference, this is considered a special case of an acid–base reaction, specifically when the base involved is also an alkali.
Alkalis are soluble bases, typically metal hydroxides like sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). Acids are substances that donate protons (H⁺ ions) in solution.
What Happens When Acids React with Alkalis?
When an acid reacts with an alkali, a chemical process known as neutralization occurs. The defining characteristic of this reaction, as stated in the reference, is that it forms specific products:
- A metal salt
- Water
This process effectively 'neutralizes' the acidic and alkaline properties of the reactants, forming substances that are typically neutral (though the resulting salt solution can sometimes be acidic, basic, or neutral depending on the strength of the original acid and alkali).
Key Points of Acid-Alkali Reactions
- Type of Reaction: Special case of acid-base reaction, specifically neutralization.
- Reactants: An acid and an alkali (a soluble base, usually a metal hydroxide).
- Products: A metal salt and water.
- Purpose: Neutralizes acidic and alkaline properties.
Example of an Acid-Alkali Reaction
Consider the reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a common alkali:
| Reactant 1 | Reactant 2 | Product 1 | Product 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrochloric Acid | Sodium Hydroxide | Sodium Chloride | Water |
| HCl(aq) | NaOH(aq) | NaCl(aq) | H₂O(l) |
In this example:
- The acid is Hydrochloric Acid (HCl).
- The alkali is Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH).
- The metal salt formed is Sodium Chloride (NaCl).
- Water (H₂O) is also produced.
This reaction fits the description provided in the reference perfectly, demonstrating the reaction between an acid and an alkali to produce a metal salt and water, thereby acting as a neutralization reaction.
