A solution with a pH greater than 7 is classified as?

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Prepare for the UCF BSC2010C Biology I Exam with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Sharpen your skills to succeed in your Biology I assessment!

A solution with a pH greater than 7 is classified as basic, which is often synonymous with alkaline. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is considered neutral (pure water), values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate basicity.

In basic solutions, the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) is greater than the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺). This higher concentration of hydroxide ions is what leads to the basic classification. Examples of basic substances include household items like baking soda or bleach. Understanding pH is important in biological systems since most biological processes occur optimally at specific pH levels, and deviations can affect enzyme activity and cellular functions.

In summary, the classification of a solution with a pH greater than 7 as basic is grounded in the definition and properties of the pH scale, demonstrating a predominance of hydroxide ions, which plays a crucial role in various chemical and biological processes.