Applications of Neutralisation Reactions in Everyday Life and Industrial Processes
- To treat acidic/basic soil.
- To treat effluents, which contain sulphuric acid with bases such as lime before they are released into rivers and streams.
- To neutralise acidic gases such as carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide released from power stations to minimize pollution.
- In the rubber industry, ammonia solution, NH4OH, is used to prevent the coagulation of latex because ammonia solution, NH4OH, can neutralise the acid (lactic acid) produced by bacteria in the latex.
- Anti-acids are medicines containing bases such as aluminium hydroxide, Al(OH)3 and magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2 to neutralise the excess acid in the stomach.
- Treatment of wasp stings which are alkaline in nature by using mild acids such as vinegar.
- Treatment of bee stings and ant bites which are acidic in nature by bases such as baking soda.