Base (chemistry) - Simple English Wikipedia

# Base (chemistry)

### From Wikipedia, a free encyclopedia written in simple English for easy reading.

A base (in chemistry) means having a pH (on the pH scale) of 7-14. Bases have these characteristics:

- Bitter taste (opposed to sour taste of acids)
- Slimy, sleazy or soapy feel on fingers
- Doesn't act well with acidic or substances that you can divide
- Bases turn red litmus paper blue

If touched, it may cause a skin irritation. Gloves should always be worn when using bases. If skin irritation happens, the area affected should be rinsed with cold water. If that does not stop the problem, contact medical help as soon as possible.

This short article can be made longer. You can help Wikipedia by adding to it.

Retrieved from "http://simple.wikipedia.org../../../b/a/s/Base_%28chemistry%29.html"

Category: Chemistry

##### Views

- Article
- Talk
- Newest version

##### Search