Reacting acids with bases
2 marks · EasyExplain, using what happens to the hydrogen ions, why the reaction between sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid is classified as a neutralisation reaction.
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Also accept: hydrogen ions from the acid react with hydroxide ions to form water; acid is neutralised by the base
Common mistakes: Saying only 'they make water' without referring to ions; Not mentioning both acid and alkali ions
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Describes that hydrogen ions (from acid) react with hydroxide ions (from base/alkali).
M1 · 1 mark · Explains that water is formed and that this removes the acidic (and basic) properties, i.e., the solution is neutralised.
Worked solution
Hydrochloric acid provides hydrogen ions (H+), and sodium hydroxide provides hydroxide ions (OH-).
H+ ions react with OH- ions to form water (H2O), removing both ions.
This means the acid is neutralised by the base, as the solution no longer has acidic or alkaline properties.