Acid vs Alkali — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Acid vs Alkali compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Acid vs Alkali compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Acid and Alkali: Acids are sour substances with pH less than 7. Alkalis are bitter bases with pH greater than 7.
Acid vs Alkali — Comparison Table
| Basis | Acid | Alkali |
|---|---|---|
| pH Value | Less than 7 | Greater than 7 |
| Taste | Sour | Bitter |
| Texture | No soapy feeling | Soapy, slippery |
| Examples | Lemon, vinegar, HCl | Baking soda, ammonia, NaOH |
| Indicator Color | Turns litmus red | Turns litmus blue |
| Reaction | Reacts with metals | Does not react with metals |
Key Points
- Acids produce H+ ions, alkalis produce OH- ions
- Neutralisation happens when acid meets alkali
- pH scale measures acidity and alkalinity
- Both acids and alkalis can be corrosive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an acid and an alkali?
An acid releases hydrogen ions in water and has a pH below 7. An alkali is a base that dissolves in water, releases hydroxide ions, and has a pH above 7.
Is every base an alkali?
No. All alkalis are bases, but only the bases that dissolve in water are called alkalis. Sodium hydroxide dissolves and is an alkali; copper oxide is a base but does not dissolve in water, so it is not an alkali.
What happens when an acid and an alkali are mixed?
They neutralise each other, producing a salt and water. The hydrogen ions from the acid combine with the hydroxide ions from the alkali to form water, and the pH moves towards 7.