What is an acid-base reaction?

An acid-base reaction (also known as a neutralization reaction) occurs when an acid reacts with a base to form a salt and water. This reaction occurs when hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid react with hydroxide ions (OH⁻) from the base to produce water (H₂O). This exchange of hydrogen ions can occur between substances that are electrically neutral or those that are charged. Additionally, the metal ions from the base combine with nonmetal ions from the acid to form a salt. Protons are transferred from the acid to the base during the reaction.