What is created when an acid reacts with a base?

When an acid reacts with a base, the primary products of the reaction are salt and water. This process is known as neutralization.

In a neutralization reaction, the acid donates protons (H⁺ ions) while the base donates hydroxide ions (OH⁻). When these ions combine, they form water (H₂O). Simultaneously, the remaining ions from the acid and base react to form a salt, which is an ionic compound. The general reaction can be represented as:

Acid + Base → Salt + Water.

This fundamental concept is central to understanding acid-base chemistry. The formation of salt and water is a defining characteristic of these reactions and is universally observable across various acid-base combinations.