Science
What is pH and Why Does It Matter?
An explanation of pH, the scale used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, and its crucial role in our daily lives.
What is it?
pH, which stands for "potential of hydrogen," is a scale used in chemistry to specify the acidity or basicity of a liquid solution. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, like pure water. A pH less than 7 indicates acidity, while a pH greater than 7 indicates alkalinity or basicity. The scale is logarithmic, meaning each whole pH value below 7 is ten times more acidic than the next higher value. For example, a pH of 3 is ten times more acidic than a pH of 4. This measurement is crucial in chemistry, biology, and environmental science.
Why is it trending?
The concept of pH is consistently relevant due to its broad impact on health, industry, and the environment. There is growing public interest in how pH affects the body, influencing dietary trends and the wellness industry. In environmental science, monitoring the pH of water and soil is critical for assessing the impact of pollution, such as acid rain, which can harm aquatic life and crops. In industries from cosmetics and food production to water treatment, precise pH control is essential for product safety, quality, and efficacy.
How does it affect people?
The pH level impacts everyday life in numerous ways. In the human body, blood pH is tightly regulated between 7.35 and 7.45 for survival. Our stomachs use a highly acidic environment with a pH of around 1.5 to 3.5 to digest food. Soil pH affects agriculture, as different plants require specific pH levels to absorb nutrients properly. Even household products have specific pH levels; toothpaste is slightly alkaline to neutralize acids in the mouth that cause tooth decay, and cleaning products use varying pH levels for effectiveness.