alkalisk

Alkalisk is the Swedish term meaning alkaline. In chemistry, it describes substances with properties characteristic of bases and solutions with a pH greater than 7. Alkaline substances can neutralize acids and typically form hydroxide ions in aqueous solution, according to the Arrhenius definition. More broadly, the concept spans Brønsted-Lowry bases that accept protons and Lewis bases that donate electron pairs, encompassing a wide range of compounds, not all of which release OH- in water.

Common examples include alkalis such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH), which are highly soluble bases; alkaline earth oxides and hydroxides such as calcium oxide (CaO) and magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) that generate alkaline solutions when dissolved or in hydration.

Alkaline environments are discussed in soil science (alkaline soils with high pH), water treatment (to adjust pH), and geology (alkaline rocks enriched in alkalis like sodium and potassium). In food processing and industry, alkaline substances are used for cleaning and processing, e.g., caustic soda in pretzels or drain cleaners; sodium bicarbonate is a milder base used in baking.

Hazards include causticity and corrosion; handling requires protective equipment and proper storage.