The degree of pH is measured on a scale from 0 to 14, where 7 is considered neutral. This scale helps us understand how acidic or basic a substance is.
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale is a fundamental concept in chemistry, reflecting the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. This concentration directly impacts the substance's acidity or alkalinity.
| pH Value | Description |
|---|---|
| 0 - 6.9 | Acidic |
| 7 | Neutral |
| 7.1 - 14 | Basic (Alkaline) |
Key Points About pH:
- Neutral pH (7): Pure water, in ideal conditions, has a pH of 7. This is a balance where hydrogen (H+) and hydroxyl (OH-) ions are equal.
- Acidic pH (Less than 7): A pH below 7 indicates an acidic environment, meaning there are more hydrogen ions (H+) than hydroxyl ions (OH-). For example, lemon juice is acidic and has a low pH.
- Basic or Alkaline pH (Greater than 7): A pH above 7 signifies a basic or alkaline environment, with a higher concentration of hydroxyl ions (OH-) compared to hydrogen ions (H+). Soap is a common example of a basic substance.
Importance of pH:
pH is crucial in many fields, such as:
- Water Quality: Monitoring pH levels helps to ensure safe drinking water and healthy aquatic ecosystems.
- Agriculture: Soil pH influences plant growth.
- Biological Systems: pH is essential for biological processes within the body, and the functioning of cells and enzymes.
According to the reference provided: "The range goes from 0 - 14, with 7 being neutral. pHs of less than 7 indicate acidity, whereas a pH of greater than 7 indicates a base. pH is really a measure of the relative amount of free hydrogen and hydroxyl ions in the water."
