Salts

Salts are ionic compounds that result from the neutralization reaction of an acid and a base. They are composed of related numbers of cations (positively charged ions) and anions (negative ions) so that the product is electrically neutral (without a net charge). These component ions can be inorganic, such as chloride (Cl−), or organic, such as acetate (CH3COO−); and can be monatomic, such as fluoride (F−), or polyatomic, such as sulfate (SO42−).

Types of Salts

There are several varieties of salts, and in this section, we will discuss four major types of salts: Acid Salts, Basic Salts, Neutral Salts, and Mixed Salts.

Acid Salts

An acid salt is a salt that has one or more H+ ions attached to it. They are formed by partial neutralization of polybasic acids.

Basic Salts

A basic salt contains a hydroxide ion. They are formed by partial neutralization of a base.

Neutral Salts

A neutral salt is a salt that neither has H+ ions nor OH- ions. They are formed by complete neutralization of an acid by a base.

Mixed Salts

A mixed salt is a salt that contains more than one basic or acid radical. They are formed by neutralization of an acid by a base.

Properties of Salts

Salts have a number of unique properties. Some of the most common properties of salts include:

• Salts are usually solid and crystalline at room temperature.
• Salts have high melting and boiling points.
• Salts are usually soluble in water and insoluble in organic solvents.
• Salts conduct electricity in molten state or in an aqueous solution.

Uses of Salts

Salts have a wide range of uses in various industries. Some of the most common uses of salts include:

• In food: Salts are used for seasoning and preservation.
• In medicine: Salts are used in the production of various medicines.
• In agriculture: Salts are used as fertilizers.
• In industry: Salts are used in the production of various chemicals.

See Also

• Acid
• Base
• Neutralization

Salts Resources
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