Salt (chemistry)
Salt (chemistry)
In chemistry, a salt is a compound that is formed by the neutralization reaction of an acid and a base. Salts are composed of related numbers of cations (positively charged ions) and anions (negatively charged ions) so that the product is electrically neutral (without a net charge).
Formation[edit | edit source]
Salts are formed when acid-base reactions occur. For example, when a hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the hydrogen and hydroxide ions combine to form water, and the sodium and chloride ions form a salt, sodium chloride (NaCl).
Properties[edit | edit source]
Salts can exhibit a large variation in their physical and chemical properties. Some salts are tasteless while others can be sweet, sour, bitter, or salty. Salts can be colorless or they can possess a variety of colors. Some salts are soluble in water while others are not. In solution, salts may conduct electricity.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Salts have a wide variety of uses. They are used in food to enhance flavor and as a preservative. They are also used in many industrial processes, such as the production of soap, paper, and textiles.
See also[edit | edit source]
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