The name of the process when an acid and an alkali react is called a neutralisation reaction. During this reaction, the hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid react with the hydroxide ions (OH⁻) from the alkali, forming water (H₂O) and producing a salt. This process is called neutralisation because the acid and alkali neutralize each other's properties, resulting in a solution that can be neutral if mixed in the correct proportions. The general equation for this reaction is: Acid + Alkali → Salt + Water This reaction is exothermic, releasing heat as it proceeds. The salt formed depends on the specific acid and alkali involved in the reaction.