Understanding Acids and Bases
The statement that acids taste sour and bases taste bitter is indeed true. Here’s a detailed explanation:

What are Acids?
- Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.
- They typically have a pH less than 7.
- Common examples include citric acid in lemons and acetic acid in vinegar.

Taste of Acids
- Acids are known for their sour taste.
- This is why lemon juice and vinegar are often described as sour.
- The sour flavor is a result of the hydrogen ions interacting with taste receptors on the tongue.

What are Bases?
- Bases are substances that can accept hydrogen ions or release hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in solution.
- They usually have a pH greater than 7.
- Examples include baking soda and soap.

Taste of Bases
- Bases are characterized by a bitter taste.
- This is why substances like baking soda can taste soapy or bitter.
- The bitterness is linked to the chemical makeup of bases and their interaction with taste receptors.

Safety Note
- While the taste of acids and bases can be informative, it is important to remember that not all acids and bases are safe to taste.
- Many can be harmful or toxic, so it's best to avoid tasting unknown substances.
In summary, the original statement is correct: acids typically taste sour while bases tend to taste bitter. Understanding these characteristics can help in identifying different substances in everyday life.