ABSTRACT
The dissociation reaction of acids with water as a base is the reference reaction for classification of acid strength. Acids can very generally be defined as either weak acids or strong acids based on the equilibrium constant for the acid dissociation reaction with water. Non-hydroxide bases undergo an acid/base reaction with the role of water as an acid. The acid strength of an acid is inversely proportional to the base strength of its conjugate base. Very strong acids have very weak conjugate bases; very weak acids have strong conjugate bases. The basicity of a solution is inversely proportional to the acidity and can be expressed through the pH value, but a further unit can be employed. Calculations of pH and pOH employ the techniques of simple stoichiometry and equilibrium calculations. The buffering process works through the neutralization of the added strong acid or base by the complementary weak base or acid.
