PH is a standard measurement of a solution's acidity or basicity. A baseline, neutral pH is 7; anything rated above a 7 is basic, and anything below a 7 is acidic. PH can be easily measured using pH testing strips. PH measurement strips are used in a variety of settings, both professionally and personally.
History
PH was first introduced as a measure of acidity and basicity by Soren Peder Lauritz Sorensen in 1909. PH is now a standard measurement scale among the scientific community.
Chemical Definition
PH is, technically, a symbol representing a logarithmic equation of a hydrogen ion's reciprocal concentration in gram atoms per liter.
Testing Strips
PH testing strips are available for pennies a piece. Once an acidic or basic solution comes in contact with the strip, even slightly, the strip delivers a color-coded pH reading and the strip is unusable for future measurement.
Measurement
Though even a small amount of solution can activate a pH testing strip, the most accurate readings require even submersion in the testable solution for several seconds.
Uses
PH testing strips are most commonly used to measure the acidity or basicity of tap water, pool water, fish tank water or other consumer water-based products. PH testing strips are also used in chemistry classrooms and labs.
Rationale
Testing is necessary to ensure a relatively neutral water-borne environment; overly basic or acidic water can harm aquatic life, irritate the skin or cause harm when ingested. Many consumer testing strips have additional color-coded indicators to test for chlorine or other water-borne chemicals.
Tags: acidity basicity, testing strips, measure acidity, measure acidity basicity, standard measurement