EasyChemistryHigh School (9–10)GeneralAcids, Bases and Salts › pH and NeutralisationAcids, Bases and Salts › Acids and BasesConceptual
A bee sting has methanoic acid. What would you rub on it, and why?
Contributed by StemPy LabTry it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
- A bee sting has methanoic acid. What would you rub on it, and why?
- Why would vinegar not help?
- A wasp sting is basic. What would help with that?
Need a reminder? The key ideaShow
Stomach acid is hydrochloric acid of pH about ; antacids are mild bases. Tooth enamel dissolves below pH ; toothpaste is basic. Bee and ant stings are acidic, so a mild base helps. Acidic soil gets lime.
The worked solution
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. (a) A mild base such as baking soda, which neutralises the acid.
Step 2. (b) Vinegar is acidic, so it would add to the acid, not cancel it.
Step 3. (c) A mild acid, such as vinegar.
Answer: as above.
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