Question

(a) Write the name given to bases that are highly soluble in water. Give an example.
(b) Why does bee using cause pain and irritation ? Rubbing of baking soda on the sting area gives relief. How ?

Answer 1

(a) Water soluble bases are called alkalis, e.g., NaOH, KOH.
(b) Tooth decay starts when the pH of the mouth is lower than 5.5. Bacteria present in the mouth produce acids by degradation of sugar and food particles remaining in the mouth after eating. This can be prevented by clearing the mouth and teeth using tooth pastes which are generally basic and can neutralize the excess acid.
(c ) Bee sting pain, a mild base like baking soda is rubbed on stung area as the mild base neutralizes the acid.