Lesson 1-1:
Acids and Bases
Introduction
Common Acids and Bases
Indicators
The pH Scale
. . . .

Common Acids and Bases

There are many different kinds of acids and bases. Acids like sulfuric acid (H2SO4) are used in the manufacture of plastic, paint, photographic film, rayon, and fertilizer. Candies and similar products have ascorbic acid or citric acid to improve their taste. Swimming pools are treated with hypochlorous acid (HClO) to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Bases like lye or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) are used in the manufacture of soap. A certain amount of bases is also added to shampoos to improve their “slippery feeling.”