Chemical Bases

Content

• Uses of the bases
• Examples of chemical bases

A chemical base is all that substance that when dissolved releases hydroxyl ions (OH^–). Chemical bases are also known as alkalis, because by dissociating and releasing hydroxyl groups, the pH of the solutions increases, that is, the solution becomes alkaline. This is contrary to what happens when a acid, because in that case the pH decreases and the solution becomes acidic.

The bases they have a characteristic bitter taste. After dissolving, the resulting solutions conduct the electric current (due to the presence of ions) and they are usually caustic and irritating to the skin and other human and animal tissues.

The bases they neutralize acids, often forming salts. Alkaline solutions tend to feel slippery or soapy; This happens because they immediately produce the saponification of the fats present on the surface of the skin.

The solubility of hydroxides depends on the metal: those of group (I) are the most soluble in water, on the other hand, the hydroxides of the elements with degree of oxidation (II) are less soluble and those of degree of oxidation (III) or (IV) are almost insoluble. Amines and nucleic acid bases are the most widespread bases among the organic ones.

Uses of the bases

Sodium hydroxide is widely used in industry: it is the so-called caustic soda. In the manufacture of soap animal or vegetable fats are used, which are boiled with hydroxide sodium, thus sodium stearate is formed.

Sodium hydroxide is also used in the manufacture of oven cleaners, in the manufacture of paper pulp and some household cleaners. Another widely used base is calcium hydroxide, which is the lime off that is used in construction.

Examples of chemical bases