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Base Exchange

Last updated: April 21, 2015

What Does Base Exchange Mean?

Base exchange is a chemical process that occurs with acid exchange involving an exchange of one or several ions of hydrogen between neutral elements such as acetic acid or molecules. The process can also occur in electric ions like hydroxide and ammonium.

Essentially, acids can have very corrosive effects, and when mixed with bases, produce salts due to neutralization. The result may have the characteristic of acids or bases, leading to highly corrosive characteristics.

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Corrosionpedia Explains Base Exchange

Salt is a type of compound that can be derived from the neutralization action of an acid and base. In this reaction, the properties of hydrogen ions and hydroxide have been destroyed. It is a reaction known as double replacement.

In many industries, chemicals that are too acidic or basic are considered reactive. For instance, car batteries have an acid content similar to acid rain. Drain cleaners also typically contain lye, which is a very alkaline and reactive substance. Moreover, bases and acids can cause serious burns, and these can dehydrate cell structures. They can also destroy protein bonds, which leads to total tissue disintegration. Other body areas that are prone to the corrosive effects of acids and bases include the cornea and the lungs.

For example, pulmonary edema can occur if a highly concentrated acid or base reaches the respiratory structure of the lungs. In this process, the cells are dehydrated in an effort to dilute the harmful agent. This hinders the normal flow of carbon dioxide and oxygen, leading to immediate death.

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