If the pH of a waste stream is 9.8, what type of waste stream is it?

• A. Acidic
• B. Neutral
• C. Basic
• D. Alkaline

Answer: (C)

A waste stream with a pH of 9.8 indicates that it is basic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where values below 7 are considered acidic, a pH of 7 is neutral, and values above 7 are classified as basic or alkaline. A pH of 9.8 falls well within the basic range, indicating that the waste stream is more alkaline than neutral.

The terms "basic" and "alkaline" are often used interchangeably in common usage, as both refer to substances that can accept hydrogen ions or donate hydroxide ions in a solution. While the question provides an option for both terms, identifying the waste stream as basic is accurate because it directly correlates to the pH measurement on the scale.

The choice of "acidic" would not apply here, as that classification is reserved for pH levels below 7. A neutral response would also not be fitting since it specifically describes a pH of 7. Therefore, recognizing a pH of 9.8 indicates a basic waste stream is critical for understanding the chemical nature of the waste being managed.