No, "alkylating" and exposing something to an alkaline substance are not the same thing.
Alkylating refers to a specific chemical process in which an alkyl group (-CH3 or a similar hydrocarbon chain) is introduced into a molecule by transferring an alkyl group from one molecule to another. Alkylating agents are compounds that can donate an alkyl group to a target molecule, resulting in the formation of a covalent bond between the alkyl group and the target molecule. This process is commonly used in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical chemistry.
On the other hand, an alkaline substance refers to a substance with a high pH, typically above 7 on the pH scale. Alkaline substances are often basic or caustic in nature, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). Exposure to alkaline substances can have various effects depending on the specific substance and the conditions of exposure. Alkaline substances can be corrosive and can cause damage to living tissues, including skin and eyes. They are often used in cleaning agents, industrial processes, and certain laboratory procedures.
In summary, alkylating refers to a specific chemical process involving the transfer of alkyl groups, while exposing something to an alkaline substance refers to the contact or interaction with a substance that has a high pH. These terms represent different concepts in chemistry and should not be confused with each other.