The quality of being basic. The opposite of acid, something that neutralizes acid, forming a salt. Having a pH greater than 7.

Al"ka*line [Cf. F. alcalin.]

Of or pertaining to an alkali or to alkalies; having the properties of an alkali.

Alkaline earths, certain substances, as lime, baryta, strontia, and magnesia, possessing some of the qualities of alkalies. -- Alkaline metals, potassium, sodium, caesium, lithium, rubidium. -- Alkaline reaction, a reaction indicating alkalinity, as by the action on limits, turmeric, etc.

 

© Webster 1913.

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