What is the difference between alkali and alkaline?

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Detailed Solution

Alkali refers to a specific type of base that dissolves in water, while alkaline describes any substance or solution that shows basic properties (pH more than 7).

Alkali

An alkali is a base that dissolves in water to give hydroxide ions (OH^-). Examples are sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH).

Alkaline

Alkaline refers to any substance or solution that is basic in nature, whether it is an alkali or not. It means having a pH value greater than 7.

Key Differences Between Alkali and Alkaline

Alkali	Alkaline
A specific group of bases soluble in water	A property of a substance having pH > 7
Examples: NaOH, KOH	Examples: Soap, Baking soda solution
All alkalis are alkaline	Not all alkaline substances are alkalis

Examples

Alkali Example: Sodium hydroxide dissolving in water to form Na⁺ and OH^-.
Alkaline Example: Lime water (Ca(OH)₂ solution) is alkaline but not all of it is soluble.

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