pH Scale

pH Scale

a scale used to define the levels of hydrogen (H) or hydroxide (OH) ions in a solution. Ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic/alkaline), with 7 being neutral.

Base

a solution that has a pH from 8-14. It has more hydroxide ions (OH) than hydrogen ions (H).

Neutral

a solution that has a pH of around 7. It has an even number of hydrogen ions (H) and hydroxide ions (OH).

Acid

a solution that is between 0-6 on the pH Scale. Contains more hydrogen ions (H) than hydroxide ions (OH).

pH

abbreviation meaning "potential for hydrogen."

Hydrogen Ion

an ion of hydrogen (H) created by the breaking up of a water molecule during the mixing of a solution. (Negatively charged)

Hydroxide Ion

an ion of one hydrogen and one oxygen (OH) created by the breaking up of a water molecule/loss of a hydrogen during the mixing of a solution. (Positively charged)

Neutrality

the need in living organisms to remain generally in the center of the pH scale so they can maintain homeostasis.

Buffers

weak acids or bases that work to neutralize the solution (bring the pH closer to 7) when a stronger acid or base is added.