In what type of reaction do acids and bases neutralize each other?

• A. Redox reaction
• B. Acid-base reaction
• C. Decomposition reaction
• D. Synthesis reaction

Answer: (B)

Acids and bases neutralize each other in an acid-base reaction. During this type of reaction, an acid donates a proton (H⁺) to a base, which accepts the proton. This process typically results in the formation of water and a salt. For example, when hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), they produce water (H₂O) and sodium chloride (NaCl).

Acid-base reactions are characterized by the transfer of protons, and they are fundamental to many biological and chemical processes. Understanding this type of reaction is crucial, as it underpins concepts such as pH balance in biological systems and various applications in chemistry and pharmacology. Other types of reactions listed, such as redox or synthesis, involve different mechanisms and do not specifically involve the neutralization of acids and bases.