Explain what occurs when an acid reacts with an alkali, in terms of ions and molecules. Also show the equation.

Answerhydrogen ions from the acid react with hydroxide ions from the alkali to form water.
H+. + OH- —> H20
ExplanationIt is important to remember that when an acid reacts with an alkali, this is called a neutralisation reaction. A neutralisation reaction is always:Acid + Alkali —> Salt + WaterHowever, because the question is asking for ions, there is no salt. Acids are H+ ions (this gives them acidic properties) and alkalis are OH- ions (this gives them alkaline properties), and together they react to form water.

FS
Answered by Filip S. Chemistry tutor

43265 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain which species is oxidised in this reaction: Br2 +2I– = 2Br– +I2


Potassium forms an ionic compound with sulfur. Describe what happens when two atoms of potassium react with one atom of sulfur. Give your answer in terms of electron transfer. Give the formulae of the ions formed.


A compound is found to contain 23.3% magnesium, 30.7% sulfur and 46.0% oxygen. What is the empirical formula of this compound?


What is the mass (g) of 0.25mols of NaCl?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning