What is the significance of a pH level below 7?

A pH level below 7 signifies an acidic solution. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 represents neutrality, indicating the solution is neither acidic nor basic, such as pure water. When the pH drops below 7, it implies an increase in hydrogen ion concentration, which is characteristic of acids. For example, solutions like lemon juice or vinegar have pH values below 7, confirming their acidic nature. In contrast, a pH above 7 indicates a basic solution, meaning it has fewer hydrogen ions and a greater concentration of hydroxide ions. Therefore, the determination that a pH level below 7 signifies acidity is a fundamental concept in understanding the properties of solutions in chemistry and biology.