What is the primary characteristic of acids in terms of taste?

The primary characteristic of acids in terms of taste is that they have a sour taste. This is a common trait of acidic substances, and it is why many fruits, such as lemons and limes, are considered acidic and have a distinctly sour flavor. The sour taste is attributed to the presence of hydrogen ions (H+) in acidic solutions.

Acids are known to react with certain indicators and compounds, producing flavors that stimulate sour receptors on our taste buds. This sourness can be a marker in both culinary experiences and in identifying substances as acidic. Recognizing this characteristic can help distinguish acids from other types of compounds with different flavor profiles, such as sweet, bitter, or salty.