The reaction between an acid and a base is called neutralisation. In this reaction, a salt and water are formed, and heat is also released.
Acid + Base → Salt + Water + Heat Neutralisation in daily life:
The sting of an ant contains formic acid, which causes pain and irritation. When we apply moist baking soda (a base), it neutralises the acid and gives relief. When soil becomes too acidic, plants cannot grow well. Farmers add lime (calcium oxide), which is a base, to neutralise the acid in the soil. If the soil is too basic, they add organic matter (compost) to make it neutral. Wastes from factories are often acidic. If this acidic water is released into rivers or lakes, it can harm plants and animals. So, before releasing it, factories add basic substances to neutralise the acids.