What pH value is considered neutral?

A pH value of 7 is considered neutral because it is the point at which the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) in the solution is equal to the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻). This balance means that the solution is neither acidic nor basic. Pure water, at 25 degrees Celsius, has a pH of 7, which is the benchmark for neutrality.

Acidic solutions have pH values less than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, while basic solutions have pH values greater than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydroxide ions. Therefore, the neutral point of 7 serves as a critical reference in understanding the acidity or basicity of various substances.