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Neutralisation is the reaction between the hydrogen ions in an acid and the hydroxide ions in an alkali to produce water. The ionic equation for neutralisation is (higher tier):

H⁺(aq) + OH^-(aq) → H₂O(l)

Neutralisation is an exothermic reaction – one in which heat is given out. The maximum temperature is reached when the acid solution is completely neutralised by the alkali.

Acids and bases

A base is a metal oxide or metal hydroxide that neutralises an acid to produce a salt and water. An alkali is a soluble base.