On the pH scale, numbers less than 7 indicate a(n):

• A. basic solution
• B. acidic solution
• C. buffered solution
• D. neutral solution

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14.
2. Understand that a pH value of 7 is considered neutral, which corresponds to pure water at 25°C.
3. Recognize that pH values less than 7 indicate an acidic solution because they have a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (H\_3O\^+).
4. Note that pH values greater than 7 indicate a basic (alkaline) solution, which has a lower concentration of hydrogen ions.
5. Therefore, numbers less than 7 on the pH scale correspond to an acidic solution.