Here's why:
* pH scale: The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. It ranges from 0 to 14.
* Neutral: A pH of 7.0 is considered neutral, like pure water.
* Acidic: Substances with a pH less than 7.0 are acidic.
* Alkaline (basic): Substances with a pH greater than 7.0 are alkaline (basic).
Some examples of alkaline substances include:
* Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): Used in baking and cleaning.
* Ammonia: Used as a cleaning agent.
* Lye (sodium hydroxide): Used in soap-making.
* Bleach (sodium hypochlorite): Used for disinfection.
* Milk of magnesia (magnesium hydroxide): Used as an antacid.