Acids, bases, and salts are fundamental chemical compounds. Acids are substances that donate hydrogen ions (H⁺) in aqueous solution. They typically taste sour and can corrode metals. Examples include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). Bases are substances that accept hydrogen ions (H⁺) or donate hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in aqueous solution. They often taste bitter and feel slippery. Examples include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonia (NH₃). Salts are ionic compounds formed when an acid and a base react with each other in a process called neutralization. They consist of a cation from the base and an anion from the acid. Examples include sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium sulfate (K₂SO₄).