What type of substance typically has a pH greater than 7?

Substances that have a pH greater than 7 are classified as bases. The pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14, indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 represents a neutral substance, such as pure water, where the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻) is equal.

When the pH rises above 7, it indicates that there are more hydroxide ions than hydrogen ions in the solution, characterizing a basic or alkaline substance. This attribute is essential in many biological and chemical processes, as bases can neutralize acids and play a critical role in maintaining the pH balance within living organisms.

In contrast, acids have a pH less than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions. Neutral substances, by definition, have a pH of exactly 7. Mineral salts may have various pH levels depending on their dissociation in water, but they are not specifically categorized within the basic or acidic range like bases and acids are.