Alkalinity refers to the ability of a substance to neutralize acids and maintain or raise the pH of a solution.
In chemical terms, it is associated with the presence of hydroxide ions (OH-). Alkaline substances, such as sodium bicarbonate, ammonia, or certain salts, increase alkalinity.
An appropriate level of alkalinity is essential in aquatic systems to counteract acidification. In industrial and water treatment applications, measuring and adjusting alkalinity is crucial to maintain stable chemical conditions.