A pH meter is electronic device used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. While alternatives to the pH meter exist, electronic pH meters are praised for their accuracy and ease of use. The pH meter comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all work the same way, measuring the activity of hydrogen ions in a substance to determine its acidity or alkalinity.
History
The pH meter was invented in 1934 by Arnold O. Beckman, an American chemist who wanted to determine how sour lemons are. According to MedicineNet, "It measured electrical current flowing into a glass electrode immersed in a solution. The amount of current indicated the solution's acidity." This was the first electronic pH meter.
Significance
The pH meter provides quick and accurate measurements of a substance's acidity or alkalinity. It is an invaluable tool to gardeners, pool owners, and aquarium aficionados. But it's not limited to these fields; a pH meter can be used to determine the alkalinity or acidity of any liquid for any reason.
Function
PH meters are an electronic means of measuring the pH level of a substance. The pH level of a substance is measured on a scale of 0 to 14. As substances move from 7 to 0, they grow in acidity (e.g. lemon juice). As they move from 7 to 14, they increase in alkalinity (e.g. soapy water). Substances that measure 7 are neutral, being neither high in acidity or alkaline.
How It Works
PH meters work using a pair of electrodes. One is used to measure the pH level and the other is used as a control. According to pH-meter.info, "the pH meter is nothing else but precise voltmeter, connected to the pH electrode, and scaled in such a way that it displays not the measured potential, but ready pH value."
Considerations
PH meters, while accurate and easy to use, are far more pricey than other means of pH measurement. Alternatives include chemicals to test pH level and pH paper strips that can be dipped in the solution and change color according to the pH level of the substance.
Storage
PH meter electrodes need to be kept hydrated, otherwise they will dry out and cease to function. It's recommended that you pour a small amount of potassium chloride into the protective cap included with your pH meter when storing the device.
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