Question

    Which characteristic is common to both acids and

    bases?
    A They have pH less than 7 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B They are bitter Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Process of mixing acid or base with water is exothermic Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D They are used as preservatives Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    When either acids or bases are mixed with water, the resulting process is typically exothermic, meaning heat is released during the reaction. This occurs as hydrogen ions (H+) form hydronium ions (H3O+) in acids, and hydroxide ions (OH-) are released in bases. The other options apply to either acids or bases exclusively, not both: acids have pH less than 7 (bases have pH greater than 7); bases generally taste bitter while acids taste sour; and while some acids are used as preservatives, this is not a universal characteristic of both acids and bases.

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