๐Ÿ’intro to chemistry review

Basic

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

Basic refers to substances with a pH greater than 7. They have a higher concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) compared to hydrogen ions (H+).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Basic solutions turn red litmus paper blue.
  2. The pH range for basic solutions is 7 to 14.
  3. Common examples of bases include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonia (NH3).
  4. Bases can neutralize acids to form water and a salt.
  5. In aqueous solutions, bases increase the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-).

Review Questions