Basic Solution Definition (Chemistry)

Chemistry Glossary Definition of Basic Solution

Soapy water
Soapy water is a good example of a common basic solution.

Khatawut Chaemchamras / EyeEm / Getty Images

A basic solution is an aqueous solution containing more OH-ions than H+ions. In other words, it is an aqueous solution with a pH greater than 7. Basic solutions contain ions, conduct electricity, turn red litmus paper blue, and feel slippery to the touch.

Examples of common basic solutions include soap or detergent dissolved in water or solutions of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, or sodium carbonate.

Sources

  • Whitten, Kenneth W.; Peck, Larry; Davis, Raymond E.; Lockwood, Lisa; Stanley, George G. (2009). Chemistry (9th ed.). ISBN 0-495-39163-8.
  • Zumdahl, Steven; DeCoste, Donald (2013). Chemical Principles (7th ed.). Mary Finch.
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Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Basic Solution Definition (Chemistry)." ThoughtCo, Aug. 28, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-basic-solution-604384. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2020, August 28). Basic Solution Definition (Chemistry). Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-basic-solution-604384 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Basic Solution Definition (Chemistry)." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-basic-solution-604384 (accessed March 29, 2024).