Final answer:
A solution with a pH of 8.0 is basic or alkaline, as it is above the neutral pH of 7 on the pH scale.
Step-by-step explanation:
Using a pH meter, you find the pH of an unknown solution to be 8.0. To describe this solution, you would identify it as basic or alkaline. The pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14, is used to determine the acidity or basicity of a solution. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, which is the pH of pure water. If the pH is less than 7, the solution is acidic.
If the pH is greater than 7, as in this case, the solution is basic (or alkaline). Therefore, with a pH of 8.0, the unknown solution is not acidic but rather basic/alkaline.