Chemical bases

A chemical base is any substance that, when dissolved, releases the hydroxide ion OH^-. Chemical bases are also called alkali, because when the hydroxide ion is released, the pH of the solution increases, that is, the solution becomes alkaline. The reverse process is the dissolution of acid when The pH decreases and the solution becomes acidic.

The bases have a characteristic bitter taste. Solutions of bases conduct an electric current (due to the presence of ions), they are also usually caustic and irritate the skin and other tissues of humans and animals.

The bases are neutralized by acids, forming a salt. Alkaline solutions are slippery or soapy to the touch because they are washed in contact with fats present in the skin.

The solubility of hydroxides depends on the metal: hydroxides of group (I) are most soluble in water, whereas hydroxides elements with oxidation state II are less soluble, and hydroxides of elements with oxidation state (III) or (IV) almost insoluble. Amines and bases of nucleic acids are the most common bases among organic.

Use of bases

Sodium hydroxide is widely used in industry: it is called caustic soda. In the manufacture of soap animal or vegetable fats are used, which are boiled with sodium hydroxide, thus forming sodium stearate.

Sodium hydroxide is also used in the production of oven cleaners, in the production of paper pulp and in some household cleaning products. Another widely used base is calcium hydroxide, which is slaked lime used in construction.

Examples of chemical bases