Acidic vs. Alkaline — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 26, 2023
"Acidic" pertains to or has the properties of an acid (pH < 7). "Alkaline" relates to or has the attributes of an alkali (pH > 7). They represent opposite ends of the pH scale.
Difference Between Acidic and Alkaline
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Acidic" and "Alkaline" are terms used to describe the nature of solutions based on their pH levels. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. "Acidic" solutions have a pH less than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions.
Conversely, "Alkaline" solutions have a pH greater than 7, signaling a higher concentration of hydroxide ions. These solutions are also frequently referred to as "basic." Natural examples of alkaline substances include seawater and baking soda. In general, alkaline solutions are slippery to touch and can neutralize acids, forming water and salts.
Both acidic and alkaline substances play crucial roles in various processes and industries. For instance, acidic solutions like lemon juice or vinegar are often used for culinary purposes or cleaning, while alkaline solutions like bleach serve as cleaning agents. The human body also maintains a delicate balance between acidity and alkalinity, especially in the bloodstream.
Despite their opposing natures, both acidic and alkaline substances can be harmful in high concentrations. Strong acids can be corrosive, and strong alkalis can cause burns. Hence, handling either requires caution. Overall, understanding the difference between acidic and alkaline solutions is fundamental in chemistry and everyday life.
Comparison Chart
PH Range
PH < 7
PH > 7
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Ion Concentration
Higher concentration of hydrogen ions.
Higher concentration of hydroxide ions.
Nature
Sour taste, can be corrosive.
Slippery, can neutralize acids.
Examples
Lemon juice, vinegar.
Baking soda, bleach.
Terminology
Refers to acids.
Refers to bases or alkalis.
Compare with Definitions
Acidic
Containing a high amount of acid.
Acidic soils can affect plant growth.
Alkaline
Opposite in nature to acidic.
Alkaline batteries have a longer shelf life than acidic ones.
Acidic
Potentially corrosive or harmful due to high acid content.
The acidic chemical spilled on the floor, causing damage.
Alkaline
Having the properties or characteristics of an alkali.
Soap is alkaline and can neutralize bee stings.
Acidic
Having a pH value less than 7.
Rainwater becomes acidic when polluted with sulfur compounds.
Alkaline
Containing a high amount of alkali.
Alkaline diets focus on foods that reduce acidity in the body.
Acidic
Having the properties or characteristics of an acid.
Lemon juice is acidic and can be used to dress salads.
Alkaline
Of, relating to, or containing an alkali.
Acidic
Tasting sour or sharp in flavor.
The wine had an acidic aftertaste.
Alkaline
Having a pH greater than 7.
Acidic
Acid.
Alkaline
Having a relatively low concentration of hydrogen ions.
Acidic
Tending to form an acid.
Alkaline
Of or relating to a common disposable battery made of zinc and manganese dioxide.
Acidic
(chemistry) Having a pH less than 7, or being sour, or having the strength to neutralize alkalis, or turning a litmus paper red.
Alkaline
Of, or relating to an alkali, one of a class of caustic bases.
Acidic
(mineralogy) Containing a high percentage of silica; opposed to basic.
Alkaline
(chemistry) Having a pH greater than 7.
Acidic
Of or relating to acid; having the character of an acid.
An acidic solution
Alkaline
An alkaline battery.
Acidic
Containing a high percentage of silica; - opposed to basic.
Alkaline
Of or pertaining to an alkali or to alkalies; having the properties of an alkali.
Acidic
Of or relating to acid; having the character of an acid, as an acidic solution.
Alkaline
Relating to or containing an alkali; having a pH greater than 7;
Alkaline soils derived from chalk or limestone
Acidic
Having characteristics of both an acid and a base and capable of reacting as either
Alkaline
Having a pH value greater than 7.
Seawater is slightly alkaline, with a pH around 8.
Acidic
Tasting sour like acid
Alkaline
Potentially caustic due to high alkali content.
Some alkaline cleaning agents can cause skin burns.
Common Curiosities
What does "Acidic" mean?
"Acidic" refers to substances with properties of an acid or pH values less than 7.
Are acidic solutions always harmful?
Not always. Some acidic solutions like lemon juice are safe, but concentrated acids can be harmful.
And "Alkaline"?
"Alkaline" pertains to substances with properties of an alkali or pH values greater than 7.
Can alkaline substances be dangerous?
Yes, especially in high concentrations. Strong alkalis can cause burns.
Is distilled water acidic or alkaline?
Distilled water is typically neutral with a pH of 7.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
