An acid-base reaction occurs when an acid and a base interact to form water and a salt. Acids are substances that can donate protons (H⁺ ions), while bases can accept them. For example, when hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), they neutralize each other, producing water and sodium chloride (NaCl), which is table salt. These reactions are important in many areas, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science. They help maintain pH levels in our bodies and are used in various industrial processes. Understanding acid-base reactions is essential for fields like medicine and agriculture, where pH balance is crucial.