Chemistry
What do you understand by an alkali? Give two examples of :
(a) strong alkalis
(b) weak alkalis
Answer
An alkali is a base soluble in water. All alkalis form hydroxyl (OH-) ions in aqueous solution as the only negative ions. They turn red litmus blue.
(a) Strong alkalis — Sodium hydroxide [NaOH], Potassium hydroxide [KOH]
(b) Weak alkalis — Calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2], Ammonium hydroxide [NH4OH]
Related Questions
Name an acid used:
(a) to flavour and preserve food;
(b) in a drink
(c) to remove ink spots
(d) as an eyewash.
Give reaction of acids with
(a) chlorides
(b) nitrates
State the conditions under which they react.
What is the difference between an alkali and a base.
What is the difference between the chemical nature of an aqueous solution of HCl and an aqueous solution of NH3.