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CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid Bases and Salt

CBSE Notes Class 10 Science Chapter 2 is about "Acids, Bases, and Salts." Acids, bases, and salts are fundamental concepts in Class 10 Chemistry Chapter 2. A solid understanding of these concepts is crucial for success in the subject. Keep reading to know more
authorImageJasdeep Bhatia4 Jun, 2025
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CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid Bases and Salt
CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 : Acids, bases and salts form integral components of our daily life. From the lemon you squeeze in your drink to the baking soda you use in the kitchen, acids and bases are all around us. While we might take them for granted in our everyday activities, it is important to understand how they work at a fundamental level. In this post, we will discuss the key concepts relating to acids, bases and salts as outlined in Chapter 2 of the CBSE Class 10 Science textbook.

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid Bases and Salt Overview

To grasp the intricacies of Class 10 Chemistry, a foundational understanding of Acids, Bases, and Salts is imperative as these concepts serve as the bedrock of Chemistry. Class 10 Chapter 2, Acids, Bases, and Salts, elucidates all the fundamental principles essential for comprehending chemical reactions and the functionalities of these chemical substances. To facilitate a comprehensive grasp of this chapter, Class 10 Science Chapter 2 notes have been meticulously crafted by subject experts. These notes are presented in a lucid language, aligning with the latest CBSE syllabus and Class 10 Science board exam pattern. The concise and precise nature of the Class 10 Chapter 2 science notes is specifically designed to alleviate any stress students may face while covering this particular chapter. The step-by-step elucidation aims to empower students to thoroughly understand all pivotal concepts. These revision notes not only aid in meticulous preparation but also fortify the foundation of these concepts, enabling students to excel in the examination. Physics Wallah, as a platform, offers free CBSE Solutions (NCERT) and additional study materials for students.

CBSE Class 10 Sample Paper

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid Bases and Salt

This chapter delves into the fascinating world of acids, bases, and salts. Understanding their properties, reactions, and applications is crucial in the study of chemistry. Let's explore the key concepts covered in this chapter.

1) Acids:

  • Definition: Acids are substances that can donate protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction.
  • Common Acids:
    • Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
    • Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
    • Nitric acid (HNO3)
    • Acetic acid (CH3COOH)
    • Citric acid (found in citrus fruits)
  • Properties of Acids:
    • Sour taste
    • Turn blue litmus paper red
    • React with metals to produce hydrogen gas
    • React with carbonates to produce carbon dioxide gas
    • Can neutralize bases

2) Bases:

  • Definition: Bases are substances that can accept protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction.
  • Common Bases:
    • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
    • Potassium hydroxide (KOH)
    • Ammonia (NH3)
    • Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2)
  • Properties of Bases:
    • Bitter taste
    • Feel slippery or soapy
    • Turn red litmus paper blue
    • Can neutralize acids

3) Salts:

  • Definition: Salts are formed by the reaction between acids and bases. They are compounds composed of positive and negative ions.
  • Examples of Salts:
    • Sodium chloride (NaCl)
    • Potassium nitrate (KNO3)
    • Calcium sulfate (CaSO4)

4) pH Scale:

  • Definition: The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution.
  • pH Values:
    • 0 to 7: Acidic (lower values are more acidic)
    • 7: Neutral
    • 7 to 14: Basic or alkaline (higher values are more basic)

5) Indicators:

  • Definition: Indicators are substances that change color in the presence of acids or bases.
  • Examples of Indicators:
    • Litmus paper (blue turns red in acid, red turns blue in base)
    • Phenolphthalein (colorless in acid, pink in base)
    • Methyl orange (red in acid, yellow in base)

6) Neutralization:

  • Definition: Neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of salt and water.
  • General Equation: Acid + Base → Salt + Water

7) Applications:

  • Acids:
    • Used in industries, laboratories, and daily life (e.g., citric acid in fruits).
  • Bases:
    • Used in the manufacture of soaps and detergents.
  • Salts:
    • Have various applications, including in food preservation and water treatment.
These notes cover the key concepts of Class 10 Science Chapter 2. Use them as a quick reference for revision and exam preparation.

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 PDF Acid Bases and Salt

Understanding the concepts of acids, bases, and salts plays a crucial role in mastering the subject of CBSE Class 10 Science. From learning about their properties, reactions, and uses to exploring real-life examples and solving practice questions, this chapter offers a diverse range of information for students to grasp. By providing a free PDF download of CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid, Bases and Salt, we hope to make the learning process easier and more accessible for all students. However, it is equally important to supplement your studies with reliable resources like Physics Wallah notes. These notes offer an in-depth analysis and explanation of various topics, making them an essential addition to any student's study material. So don't hesitate to utilize these resources and take your understanding of acids, bases, and salts to new heights. Remember - with dedication and perseverance, no concept is too difficult to master! Allow yourself the opportunity to excel in science by utilizing all available resources at your disposal. Together, let's strive for academic excellence!

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Acid, Bases and Salt PDF Download

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Important Questions

Below are some important questions for CBSE Class 10 Science Chapter 2: "Acids, Bases, and Salts," along with their answers. 1. What are acids? Provide examples of common acids. Answer: Acids are substances that can donate protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction. Examples include hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and citric acid. 2. Define bases. Give examples of common bases. Answer: Bases are substances that can accept protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction. Examples include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and ammonia (NH3). 3. Explain the term 'pH.' How is it measured? Answer: pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution. It is measured on a scale ranging from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity. pH is determined using indicators or pH meters. 4. What are indicators? Provide examples and their colors in acidic and basic solutions. Answer: Indicators are substances that change color in the presence of acids or bases. Examples include litmus paper (blue turns red in acid, red turns blue in base), phenolphthalein (colorless in acid, pink in base), and methyl orange (red in acid, yellow in base). 5. Describe the chemical properties of acids. Answer: Acids react with metals to produce hydrogen gas, react with carbonates to produce carbon dioxide gas, and react with bases to form salts and water. 6. What are the chemical properties of bases? Answer: Bases react with acids to form salts and water. They also feel slippery to the touch, and some bases dissolve in water to produce hydroxide ions. 7. Explain the importance of the pH scale in our daily lives. Answer: The pH scale is crucial in determining the acidity or alkalinity of substances in our daily lives. It is used in various industries, agriculture, and health-related applications. 8. How are salts formed? Provide examples of common salts. Answer: Salts are formed by the reaction between acids and bases. Examples include sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium nitrate (KNO3), and calcium sulfate (CaSO4). 9. Discuss the applications of acids in different industries. Answer: Acids are used in the production of fertilizers, in the pickling of metals, in the textile industry, and in the food industry for flavoring. 10. What are the uses of bases in our daily lives? Answer: Bases are used in the manufacture of soaps and detergents. They are also used in cleaning agents and in various household products. 11. Explain the process of neutralization. Answer: Neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water. It involves the combination of H+ ions from the acid and OH- ions from the base. 12. How do antacids work? Answer: Antacids, which are basic in nature, neutralize excess stomach acid to provide relief from indigestion and acidity. 13. Describe the role of pH in the preservation of food. Answer: pH plays a role in food preservation by influencing the growth of microorganisms. Acidic conditions inhibit the growth of spoilage organisms and bacteria. 14. Discuss the environmental impact of acid rain. Answer: Acid rain, formed by the reaction of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides with atmospheric moisture, has detrimental effects on the environment, including soil and water pollution. 15. How is the pH of a solution determined experimentally? Answer: The pH of a solution can be determined experimentally using indicators or pH meters. Indicators change color based on the pH of the solution. 16. Explain the concept of amphoteric substances. Provide examples. Answer: Amphoteric substances can act as both acids and bases depending on the conditions. Examples include water (H2O), aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), and zinc oxide (ZnO). 17. What is the importance of buffers in maintaining pH in biological systems? Answer: Buffers are crucial in maintaining a stable pH in biological systems. They resist changes in pH by neutralizing added acids or bases. This is essential for the proper functioning of enzymes and other biological processes. 18. Discuss the role of acids in the digestive system. Answer: Gastric acid (hydrochloric acid) in the stomach aids in the digestion of food by breaking down proteins. It also creates an acidic environment, preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms. 19. How does the pH of rainwater change in polluted areas? Answer: In polluted areas, the pH of rainwater can become acidic due to the presence of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, leading to the formation of acid rain. 20. Explain the term 'alkalinity.' How is it different from pH? Answer: Alkalinity is a measure of the ability of a solution to neutralize acids. It is not the same as pH, which specifically measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. 21. Discuss the role of limestone in neutralizing acidic soils. Answer: Limestone (calcium carbonate) is used to neutralize acidic soils in agriculture. It reacts with acidic substances in the soil, releasing carbon dioxide and forming water-soluble calcium ions. 22. How does the taste of sour substances differ from bitter substances? Answer: Sour substances taste acidic, while bitter substances taste alkaline. Lemons and vinegar are examples of sour substances, while baking soda is an example of a bitter substance. 23. Explain the term 'corrosion' in the context of metals. How can it be prevented? Answer: Corrosion is the gradual destruction of metals due to their reaction with substances in the environment, especially oxygen and moisture. It can be prevented by coating metals, using corrosion-resistant alloys, or applying protective coatings. 24. Compare and contrast strong acids with weak acids. Answer: Strong acids ionize completely in solution, releasing a high concentration of hydrogen ions. Weak acids only partially ionize, resulting in a lower concentration of hydrogen ions. 25. Describe the laboratory preparation of hydrogen chloride gas. Answer: Hydrogen chloride gas can be prepared in the laboratory by the reaction of sodium chloride (NaCl) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4). 26. How can you differentiate between baking soda and washing soda based on their chemical properties? Answer: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, while washing soda (sodium carbonate) reacts with acids to form carbon dioxide, water, and a salt. 27. Explain the term 'ionization of water.' Answer: Ionization of water refers to the process where water molecules dissociate into hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) in a reversible reaction. This establishes the equilibrium concentration of these ions in water. 28. Discuss the role of acids and bases in the formation of effervescence. Answer: Effervescence is the escape of gas from a liquid solution. Acids react with carbonates to produce carbon dioxide gas, leading to effervescence. Bases can also cause effervescence when they react with certain substances. 29. Explain the process of saponification. Answer: Saponification is the process of making soap by the hydrolysis of fats or oils in the presence of an alkali (base), resulting in the formation of soap and glycerol.

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Extra Questions

Here are some extra questions along with reactions related to CBSE Class 10 Science Chapter 2: "Acids, Bases, and Salts." 1. Define neutralization. Provide an example reaction. Answer: Neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of salt and water. The general reaction is: Acid+Base→Salt+WaterAcid+Base→Salt+Water Example: 2HCl+Ca(OH)2→CaCl2+2H2O2HCl+Ca(OH)2​→CaCl2​+2H2​O 2. Explain the role of antacids in the stomach. Answer: Antacids are basic substances that neutralize excess stomach acid. They contain compounds like calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide that react with stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) to form water, salt, and carbon dioxide. CaCO3+2HCl→CaCl2+H2O+CO2CaCO3​+2HCl→CaCl2​+H2​O+CO2​ 3. How does the taste of an orange change when baking soda is added? Explain the reaction. Answer: When baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is added to an orange, it neutralizes the citric acid in the orange, making it less sour. The reaction is: NaHCO3+Citric Acid→CO2+H2O+Sodium CitrateNaHCO3​+Citric Acid→CO2​+H2​O+Sodium Citrate 4. Explain the action of lime water (calcium hydroxide solution) towards carbon dioxide. Answer: Lime water turns milky when exposed to carbon dioxide due to the formation of calcium carbonate, which is insoluble. Ca(OH)2+CO2→CaCO3+H2OCa(OH)2​+CO2​→CaCO3​+H2​O 5. Describe the process of neutralization with the help of an example. Answer: Neutralization is the reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water. For example, the reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a neutralization reaction: HCl+NaOH→NaCl+H2OHCl+NaOH→NaCl+H2​O 6. Why is it advisable to dilute acids by adding water to them? Answer: Diluting acids by adding water is advisable to control the heat generated during the process. The reaction between concentrated acid and water is highly exothermic, and dilution helps in preventing excessive heat release. 7. Discuss the environmental impact of acid rain. Answer: Acid rain is formed when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with atmospheric moisture. It has detrimental effects on the environment, causing soil and water pollution, harming aquatic life, and damaging buildings and monuments. 8. Differentiate between acids and bases based on their taste and feel. Answer: Acids generally taste sour, while bases taste bitter. Acids do not have a specific feel, but bases feel slippery or soapy to the touch. 9. Write the chemical equation for the reaction between hydrochloric acid and zinc. Answer: 2HCl+Zn→ZnCl2+H22HCl+Zn→ZnCl2​+H2​

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 Preparation Strategy

Preparing for CBSE Class 10 Science Chapter 2: "Acids, Bases, and Salts" requires a strategic approach to understand the concepts thoroughly. Here's a preparation strategy to help you excel in this chapter:
  • Familiarize yourself with the syllabus to know the topics covered in Chapter 2. Break it down into subtopics for a systematic study.
  • Start with the NCERT textbook. Read the chapter thoroughly to grasp the theoretical concepts, reactions, and examples provided.
  • Make concise notes for each section of the chapter. Highlight key formulas, reactions, and definitions. This will serve as a quick revision tool.
  • Pay special attention to the chemical reactions involving acids, bases, and salts. Practice writing and balancing these reactions to reinforce your understanding.
  • Utilize visual aids like diagrams, charts, and tables to understand complex concepts visually. This can aid in better retention.
  • Work on numerical problems related to the calculations involving acids, bases, and salts. Practice stoichiometry problems to reinforce your quantitative skills.
  • Relate the concepts to real-life applications. Understand how acids, bases, and salts are used in daily life, industries, and various processes.
  • Use mnemonics and memory aids to remember key concepts, formulas, and reactions. This can make it easier to recall information during exams.
  • Practice solving sample papers and previous years' question papers. This will familiarize you with the exam pattern and help manage time during the actual exam.
  • Engage in group study sessions with classmates. Discussing concepts with peers can provide different perspectives and enhance understanding.
  • Explore online resources, educational websites, and videos to gain additional insights into complex topics. Virtual labs can also help visualize experiments.
  • Regularly revise the chapter to reinforce concepts. Use your chapter-wise notes and key points for quick reviews.
  • If you have doubts, attend doubt-clearing sessions conducted by your teacher or seek clarification from classmates.
  • Create concept maps to interconnect different concepts within the chapter. This visual representation can enhance understanding.
  • Periodically assess your understanding through self-assessment quizzes or tests. Identify weak areas and revisit those topics for better clarity.
  • Consistency is key. Allocate regular time to study Chapter 2, and avoid last-minute cramming.
  • Maintain a positive attitude. Believe in your ability to understand and apply the concepts.
By following this preparation strategy, you can build a strong foundation in Chapter 2 of Class 10 Science and perform well in examinations.

CBSE Class 10 Science Notes Chapter 2 FAQs

What is the definition of an acid?

An acid is a substance that can donate protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction. Acids have a sour taste, turn blue litmus paper red, and can neutralize bases.

Provide examples of common acids.

Common acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitric acid (HNO3), acetic acid (CH3COOH), and citric acid (found in citrus fruits).

How are bases defined?

Bases are substances that can accept protons (H+ ions) in a chemical reaction. They have a bitter taste, feel slippery, turn red litmus paper blue, and can neutralize acids.

Give examples of common bases.

Common bases include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), ammonia (NH3), and magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2).

What is the pH scale?

The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity.
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