Neutralization (chemistry)

Neutralization (chemistry)

In chemistry, neutralization (or neutralisation, see spelling differences) is a chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form a salt. Water is frequently, but not necessarily, produced as well. Neutralizations with Arrhenius acids and bases always produce water where acid–alkali reactions produce water and a metal salt.

Often, neutralization reactions are exothermic (the enthalpy of neutralization). For example, the reaction of sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. However, there is also endothermic neutralization, an example is the reaction between sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and acetic acid (vinegar).

Neutralization reactions do not necessarily imply a resultant pH of 7. The resultant pH will vary based on the strength of the acid and base reactants.