Final answer:
Acids and bases can mix and neutralize each other in acid-base reactions, which are crucial in chemistry and everyday life. Brønsted-Lowry theory includes bases without hydroxide ions that still neutralize acids, and both acids and bases affect the pH level.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Acid-Base Reactions
The statement that 'acids and bases cannot mix together' is not correct. In fact, when acids and bases mix, they can neutralize each other, leading to a neutralization reaction. These reactions involve the transfer of protons from an acid to a base. Acids like acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and bases such as antacids (which are commonly found in homes and pharmacies) are examples of substances that participate in acid-base reactions.
Brønsted-Lowry theory expands on this concept by explaining that acid-base reactions can include bases like ammonia (NH3) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which do not contain hydroxide ions but still act as bases. Both acids and bases affect the pH of a solution, contrary to the claim that only acids can alter pH levels. Furthermore, acid-base reactions are not limited to aqueous solutions; gases like HCl and NH3 can also participate in such reactions.
In summary, acid-base reactions are crucial in many areas of chemistry, and our understanding of them plays a significant role in various industries and everyday life.