What is pH value?The pH value is a measure of the acidity or basicity (alkalinity) of a solution. It is a numerical scale that ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Solutions with a pH less than 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH greater than 7 are considered basic (alkaline).
Definition of pH valueThe term pH is derived from the French word "puissance d'hydrogen," which means the power of hydrogen. The pH value is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number change in pH represents a tenfold change in acidity or basicity. For example, a solution with a pH of 3 is ten times more acidic than a solution with a pH of 4.
Importance of pH valueThe pH value is an important parameter in many scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science. It is used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, which can affect many chemical and biological processes. For example, the pH of soil can affect plant growth, while the pH of blood can affect enzyme activity.
Measurement of pH valueThe pH value can be measured using a pH meter or pH paper. A pH meter is a device that measures the electrical potential difference generated by a solution when it comes into contact with an electrode. pH paper is a strip of paper that has been treated with a pH-sensitive chemical that changes color in response to the acidity or basicity of a solution.
Examples of pH valuesSome common examples of pH values include:
- Lemon juice - pH 2
- Vinegar - pH 3
- Coffee - pH 5
- Water - pH 7
- Blood - pH 7.4
- Milk of magnesia - pH 10
- Ammonia - pH 11
- Bleach - pH 12