Preparing for CBSE board exams becomes much easier when you practice chapter-wise MCQs regularly. On this page, students can practice important MCQs from Class 10 Science Chapter 2 Acids, Bases and Salts based on the latest CBSE Board syllabus and exam pattern. These questions are designed to help with quick revision, concept clarity, and better accuracy in objective questions.
If you are looking for more chapter-wise objective questions, you can also explore our complete collection of Class 10 MCQs and Class 10 Science MCQs, covering all Science chapters and other subjects in one place for board exam preparation.
Practice Important MCQs from Acids, Bases and Salts
This chapter includes several scoring concepts like pH scale, indicators, neutralization reactions, and salts. Since CBSE now focuses more on competency-based learning, practicing MCQs is one of the best ways to improve speed and understanding together.
Students often find this chapter easy in theory but confusing in application-based questions. Regular MCQ practice helps avoid that confusion.
Important MCQs from Acids, Bases and Salts
Q. A student tests a liquid with blue litmus paper, and the paper turns red. What can be concluded about the liquid?
A. It is neutral
B. It is acidic
C. It is basic
D. It is salty
Answer: B. It is acidic
Explanation: Acids change blue litmus paper to red due to the presence of hydrogen ions in solution.
Q. Which substance is commonly used to reduce acidity in the stomach?
A. Sodium chloride
B. Magnesium hydroxide
C. Copper sulphate
D. Calcium carbonate
Answer: B. Magnesium hydroxide
Explanation: Magnesium hydroxide acts as an antacid and helps neutralize excess stomach acid.
Q. Which gas is released when dilute hydrochloric acid reacts with zinc granules?
A. Oxygen
B. Carbon dioxide
C. Hydrogen
D. Chlorine
Answer: C. Hydrogen
Explanation: Metals like zinc react with acids to release hydrogen gas along with salt formation.
Q. The pH of a solution is 12. This solution is most likely:
A. Strongly acidic
B. Weakly acidic
C. Neutral
D. Strongly basic
Answer: D. Strongly basic
Explanation: A pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution. pH 12 represents a strong base.
Q. Which of the following substances is used in whitewashing walls?
A. Calcium oxide
B. Sodium carbonate
C. Calcium hydroxide
D. Sodium bicarbonate
Answer: C. Calcium hydroxide
Explanation: Slaked lime or calcium hydroxide is used for whitewashing because it gives a shiny finish after reacting with carbon dioxide.
Q. Assertion (A): Acids conduct electricity in aqueous solution.
Reason (R): Acids produce ions when dissolved in water.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true
Answer: A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation: Acids ionize in water to produce ions, which help conduct electric current.
Q. Which salt is formed when hydrochloric acid reacts with sodium hydroxide?
A. Sodium carbonate
B. Sodium chloride
C. Sodium sulphate
D. Calcium chloride
Answer: B. Sodium chloride
Explanation: Neutralization between hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide forms sodium chloride and water.
Q. A farmer notices that crops are not growing properly because the soil is too acidic. Which material should be added to improve the soil condition?
A. Vinegar
B. Lemon juice
C. Quick lime
D. Hydrochloric acid
Answer: C. Quick lime
Explanation: Quick lime helps neutralize acidic soil and improves crop growth.
Q. Which indicator remains colorless in acidic medium and turns pink in basic medium?
A. Litmus
B. Turmeric
C. Phenolphthalein
D. Methyl orange
Answer: C. Phenolphthalein
Explanation: Phenolphthalein is commonly used to detect bases because it turns pink in basic solutions.
Q. Which compound is commonly known as baking soda?
A. NaOH
B. NaCl
C. NaHCO₃
D. Na₂SO₄
Answer: C. NaHCO₃
Explanation: Sodium hydrogen carbonate is called baking soda and is used in baking and antacids.
Q. During a laboratory activity, a student accidentally touches concentrated acid. What should be done immediately?
A. Apply perfume
B. Wash with plenty of water
C. Rub the area with cloth
D. Keep the hand dry
Answer: B. Wash with plenty of water
Explanation: Water dilutes and removes the acid, reducing damage to the skin.
Q. Which acid is naturally present in curd?
A. Citric acid
B. Oxalic acid
C. Lactic acid
D. Tartaric acid
Answer: C. Lactic acid
Explanation: Lactic acid is produced during the fermentation of milk into curd.
Q. Assertion (A): Dry hydrogen chloride gas does not change the color of dry litmus paper.
Reason (R): Hydrogen ions are not produced without water.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true
Answer: A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation: HCl shows acidic behavior only in aqueous solution where ions are formed.
Q. Which of the following substances has a pH closest to 7?
A. Soap solution
B. Distilled water
C. Lemon juice
D. Vinegar
Answer: B. Distilled water
Explanation: Pure water is neutral and has a pH of about 7.
Q. What is formed when carbon dioxide gas is passed through lime water?
A. Sodium chloride
B. Calcium carbonate
C. Calcium oxide
D. Sodium hydroxide
Answer: B. Calcium carbonate
Explanation: Carbon dioxide reacts with lime water to form calcium carbonate, making the solution milky.
Q. Which property is shown by bases?
A. Sour taste
B. Turn blue litmus red
C. Bitter taste
D. Release carbon dioxide
Answer: C. Bitter taste
Explanation: Bases are generally bitter and feel slippery to touch.
Q. A solution turns universal indicator dark red. The solution is likely to be:
A. Strong acid
B. Weak acid
C. Neutral
D. Strong base
Answer: A. Strong acid
Explanation: Dark red on a universal indicator indicates a highly acidic solution.
Q. Which chemical is mainly used in fire extinguishers?
A. Washing soda
B. Baking soda
C. Bleaching powder
D. Plaster of Paris
Answer: B. Baking soda
Explanation: Baking soda releases carbon dioxide, which helps control fire.
Q. Assertion (A): Tooth decay can begin if the pH inside the mouth falls below 5.5.
Reason (R): Acidic conditions damage tooth enamel.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true
Answer: A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation: Acidic conditions dissolve calcium phosphate present in tooth enamel.
Q. Which substance is obtained when chlorine reacts with dry slaked lime?
A. Washing soda
B. Baking powder
C. Bleaching powder
D. Plaster of Paris
Answer: C. Bleaching powder
Explanation: Bleaching powder is prepared by passing chlorine gas through dry slaked lime.
Q. Which acid is found in ant stings?
A. Acetic acid
B. Formic acid
C. Citric acid
D. Sulphuric acid
Answer: B. Formic acid
Explanation: Ant stings contain formic acid, which causes irritation and pain.
Q. A solution has a pH of 3. Compared to a solution with pH 5, it is:
A. Less acidic
B. More acidic
C. Neutral
D. Basic
Answer: B. More acidic
Explanation: Lower pH values indicate stronger acidity.
Q. Which compound contains water of crystallization?
A. Sodium bicarbonate
B. Sodium chloride
C. Copper sulphate crystals
D. Potassium hydroxide
Answer: C. Copper sulphate crystals
Explanation: Copper sulphate crystals contain fixed water molecules in their structure.
Q. A student adds a few drops of phenolphthalein to two solutions. Solution P remains colorless, while solution Q turns pink. Which conclusion is correct?
A. Both solutions are acidic
B. P is basic and Q is acidic
C. P is acidic or neutral, Q is basic
D. Both solutions are basic
Answer: C. P is acidic or neutral, Q is basic
Explanation: Phenolphthalein becomes pink only in basic solutions.
Q. Which gas causes bread and cakes to rise during baking?
A. Oxygen
B. Hydrogen
C. Nitrogen
D. Carbon dioxide
Answer: D. Carbon dioxide
Explanation: Baking soda releases carbon dioxide during heating, making baked items fluffy.
Q. Which of the following is an alkali?
A. Copper hydroxide
B. Iron hydroxide
C. Potassium hydroxide
D. Zinc hydroxide
Answer: C. Potassium hydroxide
Explanation: Alkalis are bases soluble in water. Potassium hydroxide dissolves easily in water.
Q. Assertion (A): Neutralization reactions are generally exothermic.
Reason (R): Heat is released during the reaction between acids and bases.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is false, but R is true
D. A is true, but R is false
Answer: A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation: Neutralization reactions release heat energy along with salt and water formation.
Q. Which salt is commonly used to remove permanent hardness of water?
A. Baking soda
B. Bleaching powder
C. Washing soda
D. Common salt
Answer: C. Washing soda
Explanation: Washing soda helps remove calcium and magnesium salts responsible for hardness.
Q. A student observes bubbles when marble chips react with dilute acid. The bubbles contain:
A. Oxygen gas
B. Carbon dioxide gas
C. Hydrogen gas
D. Chlorine gas
Answer: B. Carbon dioxide gas
Explanation: Carbonates react with acids to release carbon dioxide gas.
Q. Which statement correctly describes Plaster of Paris?
A. It is used for making statues and casts
B. It is highly acidic
C. It is prepared from sodium chloride
D. It turns blue litmus red
Answer: A. It is used for making statues and casts
Explanation: Plaster of Paris is widely used in making molds, decorative materials, and medical casts.
Tips to Solve Acids, Bases and Salts MCQs Faster
Focus on Indicator Color Changes
Many students lose marks by mixing up indicator reactions. Revise them regularly.
Learn the pH Scale Visually
Questions based on acidic and basic strength become easier when you understand the pH scale properly.
Remember Everyday Uses
CBSE often asks application-based questions from:
baking soda
bleaching powder
washing soda
plaster of Paris
Read NCERT Activities Carefully
Several competency-based questions are directly inspired by NCERT experiments and observations.
Practice Assertion-Reason Questions Separately
This chapter frequently includes logic-based chemistry questions in board exams.
Common Mistakes Students Make
| Mistake | Better Approach |
|---|---|
| Confusing acids and bases | Revise ion formation properly |
| Forgetting indicator colors | Make a quick revision chart |
| Mixing formulas of salts | Practice chemical names daily |
| Ignoring NCERT activities | Read experiments carefully |
| Memorizing without understanding | Focus on concept application |
Important Exam Focus Areas
These topics are asked repeatedly in CBSE exams and school assessments:
- pH scale and its applications
- Properties of acids and bases
- Chemical reactions involving acids
- Indicators and color changes
- Preparation and uses of salts
- Water of crystallization
- Practical applications in daily life
- Assertion-reason chemistry questions
Students preparing for board exams should prioritize these areas during revision.
Topics Covered in Acid, Bases and Salts Class 10 MCQs
Students will practice MCQs from all major concepts of the chapter, including:
| Major Topics | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Properties of Acids and Bases | Taste, reaction, ion formation |
| Chemical Reactions | Metal reactions, carbonate reactions |
| Indicators | Litmus, methyl orange, phenolphthalein |
| pH Scale | Acidic and basic strength |
| Neutralization Reaction | Salt and water formation |
| Salts | Common salt and its products |
| Baking Soda | Uses and preparation |
| Washing Soda | Properties and applications |
| Bleaching Powder | Preparation and uses |
| Plaster of Paris | Chemical formula and uses |
Chapter Overview
| Topic | What Students Should Know |
|---|---|
| Acids | Sour substances that release hydrogen ions in solution |
| Bases | Bitter substances that release hydroxide ions |
| Salts | Compounds formed during neutralization reactions |
| Indicators | Substances used to identify acidic or basic nature |
| pH Scale | Measures acidity and basicity of substances |
| Neutralization | Reaction between acid and base |
| Everyday Applications | Tooth decay, digestion, soil treatment, medicines |
Why This Chapter Is Important for CBSE Exams
Acids, Bases and Salts is one of the most important chemistry chapters in Class 10 Science. Questions from this chapter appear regularly in board exams, school tests, and competency-based assessments.
Students should pay special attention to:
- pH scale questions
- indicator color changes
- uses of salts
- chemical reactions
- assertion-reason questions
- practical application-based MCQs
This chapter also builds the foundation for higher chemistry concepts in future classes.
Quick Revision Notes
What Are Acids?
Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions in aqueous solution. They usually turn blue litmus red.
Examples:
Hydrochloric acid
Sulfuric acid
Nitric acid
What Are Bases?
Bases release hydroxide ions in solution and turn red litmus blue.
Examples:
Sodium hydroxide
Calcium hydroxide
Understanding the pH Scale
| pH Value | Nature |
|---|---|
| Less than 7 | Acidic |
| Equal to 7 | Neutral |
| Greater than 7 | Basic |
Lower pH means stronger acid, while higher pH means stronger base.
Common Indicators and Their Color Changes
| Indicator | Acidic Solution | Basic Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Litmus | Red | Blue |
| Phenolphthalein | Colorless | Pink |
| Methyl Orange | Red | Yellow |
Neutralization Reaction
When an acid reacts with a base, salt and water are formed.
Example:
Acid + Base → Salt + Water
Important Salts to Remember
| Salt | Common Use |
|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Baking and antacids |
| Washing Soda | Cleaning agent |
| Bleaching Powder | Disinfectant |
| Plaster of Paris | Making casts and models |
Conclusion
Acids, Bases and Salts is a scoring chapter when concepts are understood clearly and revised regularly through MCQ practice. From pH scale to salts and indicators, this chapter combines theory with practical applications that are frequently tested in CBSE exams.
Practicing chapter-wise MCQs helps students improve accuracy, strengthen conceptual understanding, and feel more confident before exams. Use this page for quick revision, self-assessment, and focused preparation throughout the academic session.

