A measure of how acidic or basic a substance or solution is.

pH is measured on a
scale of 0 to 14. On this scale, a pH value of 7 is neutral, which means it is
neither acidic nor basic. A pH value of less than 7 means it is more acidic. A
chemical that gives off hydrogen ions in water and forms salts by combining with
certain metals. Acids have a sour taste and turn certain dyes red. Some acids made
by the body, such as gastric acid, can help organs work the way they should. A
substance that can accept hydrogen ions in water and can neutralize an acid. Bases
feel soapy or slippery on the skin and they can turn certain dyes blue. A chemical
that can dissolve in water, combine with acids to form salts, and make acids less
acidic. Alkalis have a bitter taste and turn certain dyes blue. Some alkalis can
help the body work the way it should.