An acid is a substance that can donate hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water. Acids typically have a sour taste and can turn blue litmus paper red. They react with bases to form salt and water in neutralization reactions.
Some key characteristics of acids:
- Proton donor – Acids release H⁺ ions in aqueous solutions.
- Sour taste – Common in foods like lemons (citric acid) or vinegar (acetic acid).
- Corrosive – Strong acids can corrode metals or burn skin.
- Electrical conductivity – Acids conduct electricity in water because they produce ions.
Examples of acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), and citric acid (C₆H₈O₇).