ACIDS

Acids are substances that have a sour taste and turn blue litmus paper red. They are known for releasing hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water. Acids can be classified into two main types: organic acids, such as citric acid found in lemons, and mineral acids, like hydrochloric acid (HCl) used in laboratories. They play a crucial role in various chemical reactions, especially neutralization reactions where they react with bases to form salt and water. Acids are commonly found in our daily lives, including in food, cleaning agents, and even in our stomach, where hydrochloric acid helps in digestion. However, strong acids can be corrosive and should be handled with care.