Find pH from Total Alkalinity

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between total alkalinity, total carbonate concentration, and pH of a solution. It is possible to find the pH of a solution given the total alkalinity and carbonate concentration. This can be determined by checking if a hydrogen ion reacts with any of the alkaline materials, as a base is defined as a proton acceptor. It is also important to consider other ions present in the solution and whether saturation with carbon dioxide affects the alkalinity.
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gabriels-horn
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If given total alkalinity of a solution, and total carbonate concentration, is it possible to find the pH of that solution?

Total alkalinity = [OH]- + [HCO3]- + 2 x [CO3]2- - [H]+
 
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Well,to check I guess you could see whether or not a hyrdogen ion would react with any of those alkaline materials because after all, the strict definition of a base is a proton acceptor...
 
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  • #3
gabriels-horn said:
Total alkalinity = [OH]- + [HCO3]- + 2 x [CO3]2- - [H]+

What about other things? Real water usually contains also other ions which are also included in the alkalinity.

The hint: does saturation of the solution with carbon dioxide change alkalinity?
 

1. What is the relationship between total alkalinity and pH?

The total alkalinity of a solution is a measure of its ability to resist changes in pH. In other words, it is a buffering capacity that helps maintain a stable pH level. As the total alkalinity increases, the pH also tends to increase, and vice versa.

2. Why is it important to find the pH from total alkalinity?

Knowing the pH of a solution is important for understanding its chemical properties and potential reactions. Total alkalinity is a key factor in determining the pH of a solution, so finding the pH from total alkalinity can help predict how the solution will behave under different conditions.

3. What is the process for finding pH from total alkalinity?

The process for finding pH from total alkalinity involves using a mathematical formula that takes into account the concentration of alkaline substances and the dissociation constants of these substances. This formula is known as the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: pH = pKa + log ([A-]/[HA]), where pKa is the acid dissociation constant, [A-] is the concentration of the conjugate base, and [HA] is the concentration of the acid.

4. Can pH be accurately determined from total alkalinity alone?

No, pH cannot be accurately determined from total alkalinity alone. Other factors, such as the concentration of acidic substances and temperature, also play a role in determining the pH of a solution. Total alkalinity is just one piece of the puzzle and must be considered along with these other factors to accurately find the pH.

5. How does the total alkalinity affect the accuracy of pH measurements?

The total alkalinity can affect the accuracy of pH measurements by acting as a buffer, which can make it more difficult to change the pH of a solution. This can result in a less precise measurement of the pH. To improve the accuracy of pH measurements, it is important to take into account the total alkalinity and adjust the measurement accordingly.

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