Acids and Bases

Emily Wilson
8 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This AP Chemistry study guide covers acids and bases, including their definitions, properties, and reactions. It explores the pH scale, pOH, and calculations involving pH, pOH, Ka, Kb, and Kw. Buffers, titrations, and the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation are also key topics. The guide provides practice questions and exam tips focusing on titration curves and calculations related to weak acids and bases.
#AP Chemistry: Acids and Bases - The Ultimate Study Guide
Hey there, future AP Chem master! Let's dive into Unit 8, Acids and Bases. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. We'll make sure you're not just memorizing, but truly understanding the concepts. Let's get started!
#Introduction to Acids and Bases
#What are Acids?
- Definition: Acids are substances that have a pH less than 7 when dissolved in water. ๐
- Taste: They have a sour taste (think lemons!).
- Reaction: Acids react with bases to form salts.
- Proton Donors: Acids are also known as proton donors because they donate H+ ions.
- Types: Includes mineral acids (like HCl) and organic acids (like acetic acid).
- Strength:
- Strong acids completely dissociate in water (more H+ ions).
- Weak acids partially dissociate in water (fewer H+ ions).
#What are Bases?
- Definition: Bases have a pH greater than 7. ๐งผ
- Taste & Feel: They have a bitter taste and a slippery feel (like soap).
- Reaction: Bases react with acids to form salts and water (neutralization).
- Proton Acceptors: Bases are also known as proton acceptors because they accept H+ ions.
- Types: Includes inorganic bases (like NaOH) and organic bases.
- Strength:
- Strong bases completely dissociate in water (more OH- ions).
- Weak bases partially dissociate in water (fewer OH- ions).
#Neutral Solutions
- Definition: A neutral solution has a pH of 7.0. - Balance: It has an equal concentration of H+ and OH- ions.
Remember: Acids donate protons (H+), and bases accept protons (H+). This is the core concept of acid-base chemistry.
#The pH Scale
The pH scale is your best friend in this unit. Get very familiar with it!
Think of the pH scale like a number line: 0-6 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and 8-14 is basic. As you move away from 7, the solution becomes more acid...

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