The following are the similarities between the two:
• Most strong acids and bases are both corrosive in nature. They tend to corrode or rust metals.
• Both acids and bases change the colour of litmus paper. Acids turn the colour of blue litmus paper to red and bases turn the colour of red litmus paper to blue.
• Strong acids can damage the skin causing severe burns if in contact with the skin. But did you know, even strong basses can do the same?
• A lot of common things that are used in day-to-day basis are acids and bases. For e.g. Citric fruits such as lemon, orange, grapefruit, etc contain citric acid and tamarind, grapes, etc contain tartaric acid, olive oil contains oleic acid and vinegar contains acetic acid. Many soaps, toothpaste, etc have bases in them. Baking soda is also basic in nature.
• Both are classified on the basis of strength, concentration and their respective basicity and acidity. Acids are also classified on the basis of source and the presence of oxygen.
• Acids and bases both react with water and a lot of acids and bases are soluble in nature.
• Both acids and bases are electrolytes which means that they’re good conductors of electricity.
• Acids and bases both produce ions in water solution. Acids release hydrogen ions (H+) whereas Bases release hydroxide ions (OH-).
• The process of mixing acid or a base in water is an exothermic one.
