A key property of bases is that they release hydroxide ions (OH⁻) when dissolved in water, making the solution basic with a pH greater than 7
. Bases typically have a bitter taste and feel slippery or soapy to the touch due to their ability to change the structure of proteins
. They change the color of indicators, such as turning red litmus paper blue and phenolphthalein pink
. Bases react with acids in neutralization reactions to form salt and water
. Additionally, many bases can conduct electricity in aqueous or molten form because they dissociate into ions
. Strong bases are caustic and can cause burns by altering proteins in organic matter
. In summary, important properties of bases include:
- Release of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in water
- Bitter taste
- Slippery or soapy feel
- Ability to change indicator colors (e.g., red litmus to blue)
- React with acids to form salt and water (neutralization)
- Conduct electricity in solution
- Strong bases are caustic and corrosive
