Which of the following best describes the taste of alkalis?

• A. Salty
• B. Bitter
• C. Sour
• D. Sweet

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that alkalis are basic substances, which means they have a pH greater than 7.
2. Recall that the taste of substances is often related to their chemical nature: acids tend to taste sour, salts can taste salty, and bases (alkalis) typically have a distinct taste.
3. Recognize from general chemistry knowledge and common experience that alkalis usually have a bitter taste.
4. Note that sour taste is characteristic of acids, not alkalis, and sweet taste is generally associated with sugars, not bases.
5. Conclude that the best description of the taste of alkalis is 'bitter'.