*''Chemical spills'': strong acids and bases can be harmful to the environment and should be neutralised as soon as possible. The most commonly used neutralising agent is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO<sub>3</sub>) as it is [[amphiprotic]] (it can act as either an acid or a base). | *''Chemical spills'': strong acids and bases can be harmful to the environment and should be neutralised as soon as possible. The most commonly used neutralising agent is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO<sub>3</sub>) as it is [[amphiprotic]] (it can act as either an acid or a base). |