(a) Write the name given to bases that are highly soluble in water ? Give an example. (b) How is tooth decay related to pH ? How can it be prevented ? (c) Why does bee sting cause pain and irritation ? Rubbing of baking soda on the sting area gives relief. How ?
Answers
Bases that are highly soluble in water are called alkaline bases.
Examples are Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and Potassium Hydroxide (KOH).Alkalis are ionic salts of the alkaline earth metals.
Tooth decay can occur when the pH level in the mouth is 5.5. For reference, the neutral level is 7.0. When we consume acidic foods and drinks, the pH within the mouth decreases and can cause the pH in the dental plaque to fall rapidly below 5.0
To prevent tooth decay: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after each meal and especially before going to bed.
when bees sting they release a chemical called melittin into their victim. This venom immediately triggers pain receptors, causing a burning sensation. Second, because a bee's stinger is in fact barbed like a jagged sword, when it penetrates the victim's skin it actually dislodges from the bee, remaining there.
It injects an methanoic acid into the skin which causes pain and irritation. We get relief from this acid by rubbing baking soda on the affected area. This is because, being a base, baking soda neutralises the effect of methanoic acid injected by bee sting which is an acid and gives relief.