Acid
Acids are all compounds that transfer protons (H+) and thereby lower the pH value of a solution. Depending on how many protons they transfer, there are strong acids (hydrochloric acid) and weak acids (e.g. carbonic acid or acetic acid).
In addition to metals and lime, acids attack all organic tissue such as mucous membranes, skin, eyes, etc. Acidic action is accompanied by damage to tissue, denaturation of protein (flocculation) and chemical burns.
Sometimes severe damage occurs, whereas in other contexts this denaturation of protein is actually desired. This is the case, for example, in the killing of bacteria in the stomach. However, the body must protect itself against acidic action. It does this, for example, by means of a mucus layer with neutralising buffer systems.
The “opponents” of acids are bases (base solution = alkali). They can neutralise or buffer acids.
See also: Base (alkali), pH value, Hydrochloric acid, Buffer
