Water and Wastewater Terms Beginning B

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

base

(1) A substance that takes up or accepts protons; dissociates (separates) in aqueous solution to yield hydroxyl ions (OH–); or contains hydroxyl ions, causing it to react with an acid to form a salt or possibly causing it to react with metals to form precipitates. (2) The bottom of the inside of a manhole. Also called apron, bench, or shelf.