3.53. Properties of Bases http://www.ck12.org
FIGURE 3.100
- Indicator compounds such as litmus can be used to detect bases. Bases turn red litmus paper blue.
- The strength of bases is measured on the pH scale. A pH value greater than 7 indicates a base, and the higher
the number is, the stronger the base. - Bases have many important uses. For example, they are found in many cleaning products and in concrete.
Vocabulary
- base: Ionic compound that produces negative hydroxide ions (OH−) when dissolved in water.
Explore More
Compare bases with acids at the following URL. Then click on and complete the acids and bases quiz. http://www.m
cwdn.org/chemist/acidbase.html
Review
- What is a base?
- What are some properties of bases?
- How can you use litmus paper to detect a base?
- Ocean water is slightly basic. What might its pH value be?
- Considering the properties of bases, which of the following do you think is a base?
a. orange juice
b. lemonade
c. vinegar
d. baking soda