Percentage of Hydrogen The concentration of IONS containing hydrogen in a compound is measured and expressed as pH
Hydrogen ions are acidic in nature and are called acid ions. e.g., hydrochloric acid. Hydroxides (OH) are alkaline in nature and are called alkali ions. e.g., caustic soda (lye). In neutral solutions, the acid ions equal the alkaline ions. e.g., distilled water.
0
Acid More ions than alkaline ions.
7
Neutral Acid ions and alkaline ions are evenly balanced.
Why is pH important?
1. Critical for the proper selection of a cleaner for a particular job. 2. In cleaning, we are attempting to neutralize the impact of acidic or alkaline ions.