ALKALIES

ALKALIES are chemical compounds or bodies which, combining with acids form salts. These are soluble in water. When dissolved in water, alkalies release hydroxide ions (OH‾). Alkaline solutions have a pH value greater than 7. They are properly four in number, viz., potash, soda, lithia, and ammonia.

An alkali, typically a caustic or corrosive substance, turns litmus blue, and neutralizes or effervesces with acids.

Formarly, alkalies were derived from the ashes of various plants.