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What type of solution typically has a pH greater than 7?

  1. Neutral

  2. Acidic

  3. Alkaline

  4. Buffered

The correct answer is: Alkaline

The correct answer is indeed that an alkaline solution typically has a pH greater than 7. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is considered neutral, indicating a balance between hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions. Values above 7 reflect an excess of hydroxide ions, which characterize alkaline (or basic) solutions. These solutions include substances like soap, baking soda, and certain cleaning agents. Neutral solutions have a pH of exactly 7, while acidic solutions have a pH less than 7, indicating an abundance of hydrogen ions. Buffered solutions can maintain a stable pH level, which may be neutral, acidic, or alkaline depending on their specific formulation. However, they do not automatically imply a pH above 7. Therefore, the defining characteristic of an alkaline solution is its higher pH, distinguishing it from the others mentioned.