Question

Explain the neutralization reactions in our daily life.

Answer 1

• Ant bite:

1. Whenever bees or red ants bite they inject an acid called formic acid.
2. These acids cause burning sensation and pain.
3. To suppress the pain, a suitable base in the form of calcium hydroxide (readily available at home) is applied to neutralize the formic acid.

• Wasp bite:

1. When we are bitten by a wasp, we feel the burning sensation and pain. It is due to an alkaline substance injected by the insect.
2. To neutralize the alkalinity, we use vinegar which is an acid.

• Tooth decay:

1. The bacteria present in our mouth decompose the food particles stuck in the gaps between our teeth thereby causing acid formation which leads to tooth decay.
2. When we brush with tooth powder or tooth paste containing weak bases, the acid gets neutralized.

• Acidity:

1. Excessive production of hydrochloric acid in our stomach causes ulcers in the stomach and food pipes.
2. In order to neutralize, antacids which are nothing but weak bases like aluminum and magnesium hydroxides are used.

• Agriculture: 
  Farmers add lime fertilizers such as powdered lime (CaO), limestone (CaCO₃), or ashes of
  burnt wood to the soil to neutralize the acidity.
• Industries:
   Effluents from the industries contain acids such as sulphuric acid. It is treated by adding lime to neutralize it before it is discharged into rivers and streams.