This document defines acids and bases and their key characteristics. Acids release H+ ions in water and have sour tastes, react with metals, and contain hydrogen. Strong acids completely dissociate into H+ ions while weak acids only partially dissociate. Common strong acids include sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid. Bases release OH- ions in water and usually taste bitter and feel slippery. Strong bases contain hydroxide ions and are also corrosive. When acids and bases react through neutralization, they form water and a salt like NaCl. The pH scale measures the concentration of H+ ions in a solution, with lower pH indicating more H+ ions.