If a small amount of base is dissolved in water, in which direction will the pH of the solution move?

Correct answer: Towards above 7

The pH scale describes hydrogen-ion activity: neutral water is approximately pH 7, acidic solutions are below 7, and basic solutions are above 7. Dissolving a base in water increases hydroxide-ion concentration and makes the solution alkaline. Thus its pH moves to a value above 7, so option C is correct. It does not move below 7 or remain exactly neutral; the actual value depends on the amount and strength of the base.