Alkali

In chemistry an alkali is a caustic base which produces hydroxide ions (OH^-) when dissolved in water or alcohol. Common alkalis include sodium hydroxide (also called lye or caustic soda), ammonia, potassium hydroxide (also called potash), and lithia. They are capable of turning litmus blue and reacting with an acid to form a salt and water. \nSee also: alkali metal and alkaline earth metal