Reacting acids with bases
2 marks · HardExplain why the reaction between an acid and a metal oxide is called a neutralisation reaction. Use your knowledge of ions to support your answer.
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Because in this reaction, hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid react with oxide ions (O²⁻) from the metal oxide to form water (H₂O); the acid is neutralised by the base.
Also accept: H+ from acid reacts with O2- from base to form water, which neutralises the acid.
Common mistakes: Omitting reference to ions; Just saying salt and water are formed without explaining neutralisation
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Explains that H⁺ ions from the acid react with O²⁻/oxide ions from the base.
M2 · 1 mark · States that water is formed and the acid is neutralised.
Worked solution
The reaction is called neutralisation because hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid combine with oxide ions (O²⁻) from the base to form water. This means the acid is neutralised.