The pH scale is a logarithmic scale used to specify the acidity or basicity (alkalinity) of an aqueous solution. It quantifies the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) present in the solution. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 14, where:
- A pH of 7 is considered neutral. This means the concentration of hydrogen ions is equal to the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in the solution.
- pH values less than 7 indicate acidity. The lower the pH value, the higher the acidity of the solution. For example, a pH of 4 is more acidic than a pH of 6.
- pH values greater than 7 indicate basicity or alkalinity. The higher the pH value, the more basic the solution. For instance, a pH of 10 is more basic than a pH of 8.
The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole pH value below 7 is ten times more acidic than the next higher value, and each whole pH value above 7 is ten times more alkaline than the preceding value. For example, a solution with a pH of 5 is ten times more acidic than a solution with a pH of 6, and a solution with a pH of 9 is ten times more alkaline than a solution with a pH of 8.
The pH scale is an essential tool in various fields, including chemistry, biology, environmental science, and medicine, for understanding and controlling chemical reactions, biological processes, and environmental conditions.
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