Acidic and alkaine (or "basic") are two extremes that describe substances, usually liquids or chemicals, just like hot and cold are two extremes that describe temperature. A substance that is neither acidic nor alkaline is neutral.
See Also
NeutralizationThe pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. The scale ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral. A pH less than 7 is acidic, and a pH greater than 7 is basic. Pure water is neutral, with a pH of 7.0. When chemicals are mixed with water, the mixture can become some level of either acidic or alkaline. Vinegar and lemon juice are acidic substances, while laundry detergents and ammonia are alkaline.
