alkalinity

[al-kuh-lin-i-tee]

noun

Chemistry.

1. alkaline condition; the quality that constitutes an alkali.

alkalinity

/ ˌælkəˈlɪnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or state of being alkaline

2. the amount of alkali or base in a solution, often expressed in terms of pH

Other Word Forms

• hyperalkalinity noun
• superalkalinity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of alkalinity¹

First recorded in 1780–90; alkaline + -ity

Example Sentences

Southern California soils already tend toward high alkalinity, said biochemist Garn Wallace of Wallace Laboratories, which has tested soil for 35 years.

From Los Angeles Times

The effect of haemodialysis is said to mimic the effect of carbon dioxide in the blood – which increases the pH or alkalinity inside red blood cells.

From Salon

Do not put the ash or contaminated soil into green bins or compost piles because it could contain toxins, or at the very least, high alkalinity that could be harmful to plants.

From Los Angeles Times

When button batteries are lodged in the body, their electrical current breaks down water, driving up alkalinity to dangerous levels akin to bleach.

From Los Angeles Times

“And so we had to figure out what kinds of plants can handle the sharp drainage, the alkalinity, any pollution, the lack of organic matter.”

From Seattle Times