Alkali and Alkaline Chemistry

An alkali is a basic, ionic salt of an alkali metal or an alkaline earth metal, or it can be defined as a base that dissolves in water.

A solution of a soluble base has a pH greater than 7.0.

The word 'alkali' is derived from Arabic al qalīy (or alkali), meaning the calcined ashes, referring to the original source of alkaline substances.

<p>Potash is composed mostly of potassium carbonate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Caustic potash (potassium hydroxide) was traditionally used in conjunction with animal fats to produce soft soaps.</p> Signup and view all the answers