pH Meter: A Complete Guide to Testing Water Acidity and Alkalinity

pH meters are one of the must-have tools in every laboratory and numerous industries. Years back, a basic pH detection kit was used, but with the advancement of technology, a pH analyzer is available for a quick and convenient way of measuring pH. What is pH? pH stands for potential, and the H indicates the hydrogen ion value. As the name indicates, the meter measures the hydrogen ions in any solution.

It is expressed as a value between 1 and 14, where lower numbers are acidic and higher values indicate alkalinity. Extremely high acidity, like bleach powder's pH, is 13 or 14 pH. 7 indicates a neutral value that cannot be classified as either acidic or alkaline. pH measurement is a fundamental requirement for many industries.

How Does a pH Meter Work?

The most commonly available pH analyzers are handheld or benchtop versions. It measures the voltage or the electrical activity produced by any liquid sample. Acidic solutions have a higher number of hydrogen ions. Every pH meter has 2 components: a reference electrode and a probe. The second electrode has a standard electrolyte with a neutral pH value. Once you immerse the probe, it measures the difference in voltage of the ions.

Why is pH Important in Water?

pH of the water tells us a lot about its chemical properties and behavior. Drinking water with too high or low pH can bring health problems. Acidic water can corrode the water pipes, and alkaline water can cause gastrointestinal issues.

Aquatic systems are highly sensitive to pH levels. If the water is too acidic or too alkaline, it will disturb the survival mechanisms of aquatic life.

Even in agriculture, a desirable pH level must be obtained for the healthy growth of crops. Different plants require specific pH ranges for their optimal growth.

pH is closely inspected in industries where minor inaccuracies result in drastic impacts. It is important for the pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing industries.

Types of pH Meters

In this advanced era, a variety of products are available that perform the same function, and so is the case with the pH meter. Here are the common types of pH meters available in the market;

● Portable pH Meter: A convenient pH analyzer that is suitable for testing in fields and water bodies because of its portability and ease of use.

● Laboratory pH Meter: These are advanced meters that are used in laboratories where accurate measurements are critical. They have additional features like data logging and advanced calibration.

● Online pH Meter: Online ph analyzer is popularly used for wastewater and clean water such as pulp & paper, textiles, metal plating, and heavy industries, drinking water, bottled water, farming, swimming pool, aquaculture etc. 

How to Use a pH Meter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Calibration

The first one you have got a pH analyzer is its calibration. This is required for accurate readings. Turn on the pH meter and rinse the electrode with distilled water. Dip the electrode into a calibration solution (buffer). Adjust the calibration until it reads the correct value for the solution. pH values of calibration solutions are already known. Repeat the process with the other calibration solutions for accuracy.

Always rinse the electrode after collaboration to avoid cross-contamination of different samples.

Measurement

To measure the pH of any liquid sample, follow these steps;

● Immerse the electrode in the liquid

● Gently stir the softwood for uniform distribution of the ions

● Wait for a new second till the readings get constant,

● Record the value displayed on the pH analyzer

After the readings are taken, raise the electrode once again. If you don't have to use the pH meter immediately, store it in a storage solution as recommended by the manufacturer; proper storage improves its working ability.  

Tips for Accurate pH Measurement

● pH meters may give inaccurate results after some time. Frequent calibration keeps the risk of inaccurate readings away from you.

● Store the electrode in a pH storage solution. The electrode m, but not be allowed to dry out.

● Consider the temperature of your liquid sample as temperature can alter the pH of any solution. Modern pH meters have automatic temperature compensation.  

● Never use tap water to rinse the electrode. Tap water contains many minerals that can affect the pH readings.

Wrap Up!

pH meters provide precise readings that are not possible with test strips. However, you must understand how to properly calibrate and use a meter for effective results. Only this way you can get reliable data. Having a high-quality pH analyzer is paramount, so make a wise choice and select from our collection of pH meters that are proven to be accurate.