An alkaline solution is a type of solution that has a pH level greater than 7. This means it is basic rather than acidic. Alkaline solutions are often formed when alkaline compounds, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH), dissolve in water. These compounds release hydroxide ions (OH⁻) into the solution, which increases the pH level.
Alkaline solutions have several important properties and uses. For example, they can neutralize acids, which makes them useful in various industrial processes and household cleaning products. Additionally, alkaline solutions are commonly used in laboratories for chemical experiments and in the production of soaps and detergents.
In everyday life, you might encounter alkaline solutions in the form of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) dissolved in water, which is often used as a natural cleaning agent or antacid. Understanding the nature of alkaline solutions is essential in fields like chemistry, biology, and environmental science, as it helps in predicting how substances will react with each other and their impact on the environment.