Neutralization Definition in Chemistry

Neutralization Definition in Chemistry A neutralization reaction is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base which produces a more  neutral solution (closer to a  pH of 7). The final pH depends on the strength of the acid and base in the reaction. At the end of a neutralization reaction in water, no excess hydrogen or hydroxide ions remain. Neutralization Examples The classic example of a neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base to yield a salt and water: acid base → salt water For example: HCl NaOH → NaCl H2O The right arrow indicates the reaction completes to form the product. While the classic example is valid, a more general expression based on Bronsted-Lowry acid-base theory is: AH B → A BH For example: HSO4- OH- → SO42- H2O is also an example of a neutralization reaction. Strong vs Weak Acids and Bases While strong acids and strong bases completely dissociate, weak acids and bases only partially dissociate to form an equilibrium mixture. The neutralization remains incomplete. Thus, the right arrow is replaced by arrows pointing both toward products and reactants. An example of a neutralization with a weak acid and base would be: AH B â‡Å'  A- BH Source Steven S. Zumdahl (2009).  Chemical Principles  (6th ed.). New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. pp.  319–324.