Answer to Question #206028 in Chemistry for marianna

Question

 It has been suggested that pain results from a change in the pH of solutions that surround nerves in the body. Many irritating insect bites, for example, are acidic. The fluid inside your cells is also slightly acidic. When a cut or a burn releases this fluid, the pain is signalled through your nerve endings. What would you expect to find if you tested the pH of creams and lotions that are used to treat insect bites? Explain our answer.

Answer 1

The pH of creams and lotions that are used to treat insect bites is expected to be basic (higher than 7). As a result, the basic solution would neutralize acidic insect bites reducing pain.