Alkali: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'alkali' comes from the Arabic 'al-qaly’, which means 'the ashes of saltwort plants'.
• It was introduced to European languages during the Middle Ages by alchemists exploring the properties of substances.
• Its modern use dates back to the 16th century when chemists used it to describe basic compounds derived from plants.

Science

• Alkalis are bases that dissolve in water and release hydroxide ions, making them essential in chemistry and industry.
• Common alkalis include sodium hydroxide (used in soap) and potassium hydroxide (used in fertilizers).
• In chemistry, alkalis are characterized by a pH level greater than 7, meaning they can neutralize acids.

History

• Alkaline salts were originally derived from the ashes of certain plants, which made them vital for early soap making.
• The use of alkalis in glazing pottery dates back thousands of years, highlighting their importance in ancient civilizations.
• During the Industrial Revolution, alkali production became integral for manufacturing processes like glass and soap.

Pop Culture

• The term 'alkali' may not often come up in daily conversation, but it appears in various environmental discussions about water quality.
• In films focusing on chemistry, characters may use alkalis in experiments to demonstrate reactions with acids.
• Educational shows sometimes highlight alkalis in safely neutralizing spills, promoting awareness about chemical safety.

Health

• Certain foods, known as alkaline foods, are believed to help balance the body's pH levels, although science supports this to a limited extent.
• In healthcare, alkaline solutions are used in some medical cleaning products to ensure a sterile environment.
• The idea of an 'alkaline diet' became popular, claiming that foods can impact body health through acidity and alkalinity.

At #7,048 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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