Base

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In biology and chemistry, a base is the opposite of an ACID: it is a substance that decreases the hydrogen ION (H⁺) content of a solution. This can be achieved by different mechanisms. The principal ones are by dilution: sodium hydroxide (NaOH) for example dissociates in solution into SODIUM ions (Na⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻). The hydroxide ions can combine with hydrogen ions to form water (H₂O).

Alternatively, hydrogen ions can be scavenged. Ammonia (NH₃) for example can attract hydrogen ions in solution, combining with them to form ammonium ions (NH₄). An alternative name for a base is an ALKALI.

See also: pH

Campbell N.A., Reece J.B. & Mitchell L.G. (1999) Biology, 5th edn, Addison-Wesley: Menlo Park CA.

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