If the pH level is lower than 7, how is the solution classified?

A solution with a pH level lower than 7 is classified as acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral, indicating a balanced concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). A pH level below 7 signifies that the concentration of hydrogen ions is greater than that of hydroxide ions, which is characteristic of an acid. Therefore, any solution that falls in this range exhibits properties associated with acids, such as sour taste and the ability to react with bases.

In contrast, a neutral solution has a pH level exactly at 7, indicating no excess of either hydrogen or hydroxide ions. A basic solution, which has a pH greater than 7, has a higher concentration of hydroxide ions compared to hydrogen ions. The term "supersaturated" does not pertain to pH at all; it refers to a solution that contains more dissolved solute than what can typically be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure.

Overall, the classification of a solution with a pH below 7 as acidic is fundamental in chemistry and provides insight into the solution's chemical behavior and reactivity.