Lemon juice has a pH between 2 and 3. This makes it significantly acidic, approximately 10,000 to 100,000 times more acidic than water (which has a neutral pH of 7). The exact pH can vary slightly depending on factors like lemon variety and ripeness.
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline (basic) a substance is. It ranges from 0 to 14:
- 0-6: Acidic (lower numbers indicate stronger acidity)
- 7: Neutral
- 8-14: Alkaline (higher numbers indicate stronger alkalinity)
Why is Lemon Juice Acidic?
The high acidity of lemon juice is primarily due to its high concentration of citric acid, a naturally occurring organic acid. This acid contributes to lemon's characteristic tart flavor.
pH of Lemon Juice in Different Contexts:
- Culinary Use: In cooking and baking, the acidity of lemon juice is utilized for its flavor and also its ability to tenderize meats and prevent browning.
- Cleaning: The acidity of lemon juice can be exploited for its mild cleaning properties.
- Soil: While lemon juice itself is acidic, the ideal pH for growing lemon trees is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0). Soil pH needs to be managed carefully to support healthy growth.
Examples of pH Values:
- Lemon Juice: 2-3
- Water: 7
- Hydrochloric acid: close to 0
Multiple sources confirm the pH range of lemon juice to be between 2 and 3, highlighting its significant acidity. While some claim a potential alkalizing effect in urine after consumption, the primary pH of lemon juice remains firmly in the acidic range.
