What happens when a base and an acid are mixed?

When a base and an acid are mixed, they undergo a chemical reaction known as neutralization. In this process, the hydrogen ions (H+) from the acid react with the hydroxide ions (OH-) from the base to form water (H2O). This reaction typically also results in the formation of a salt, which consists of the positively charged ions from the base and the negatively charged ions from the acid.

Neutralization is significant in various fields, including water treatment, where it helps to adjust pH levels, making water safe for consumption or suitable for other purposes. The end products of this reaction—water and salt—are usually less harmful than the reactive acidic and basic components.

In contrast, the processes of coagulation, disinfection, and sedimentation are related to different chemical or physical processes used in water treatment and do not describe the interaction between acids and bases. Coagulation involves the aggregation of particles in water to form larger clumps, disinfection refers to the process of eliminating pathogens, and sedimentation is the settling of particles due to gravity. None of these accurately describe the reaction that occurs when an acid and a base are mixed, highlighting that neutralization is the particularly relevant concept in this scenario.