Zásaditou

"Zásaditou" is a Czech language term that translates to "alkaline" or "basic" in English. It describes a substance that has a pH greater than 7. This indicates a lower concentration of hydrogen ions compared to pure water. In chemistry, alkaline substances are characterized by their ability to neutralize acids. They often feel slippery to the touch and can have a bitter taste, although tasting chemicals is strongly discouraged for safety reasons. Common examples of alkaline substances include baking soda, ammonia, and lye.

The concept of alkalinity is crucial in various fields. In environmental science, the pH of water bodies is monitored to assess their health, as excessive alkalinity can harm aquatic life. In industrial processes, alkaline solutions are used for cleaning, manufacturing, and in chemical reactions. In biology, the pH balance within living organisms is essential for proper functioning, with many biological fluids maintaining a slightly alkaline pH. The opposite of alkaline is acidic, which refers to substances with a pH less than 7. A pH of exactly 7 is considered neutral. Understanding the difference between acidic, neutral, and alkaline substances is fundamental to many scientific disciplines.