What Are the Health Implications of Hydroxide Radicals in Alkaline Water?

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The discussion revolves around the health claims of ionizer water machines that convert ordinary water into alkaline water. The primary focus is on understanding the alkaline property of water, particularly the role of hydroxide ions (OH-). There is confusion regarding the health implications of OH- as it is often associated with radicals, which are considered harmful. However, participants clarify that OH- as an anion is distinct from hydroxyl radicals (OH·), which are indeed radicals. The conversation also touches on the potential benefits of alkaline water in certain contexts, such as in developing countries where water quality is poor. However, in developed nations, the consensus leans toward skepticism about the health benefits of alkaline water, suggesting that such machines may be more of a marketing gimmick than a legitimate health solution.
Stephanus
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Dear PF Forum,
Recently I'm studying an ionizer water machine. This machine claims (it's what it says) that it can turn 'ordinary' water into alkaline water and good for health. It's not the machine that I ask, but it's the alkaline property that I want to know.

Why is the walter alkalinized? Is it OH-?
I read that alkalinized water is good for health
And I also read that Hydroxide is a radical, and radical is not good for our health.

Perhaps someone can explain to me, where does the alkaline property come from?
Is OH- is really bad for our health.
Or is OH neutral is the radical agent while OH- is actually good.
Thanks for any explanations. :smile:
 
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Stephanus said:
Dear PF Forum,
Recently I'm studying an ionizer water machine. This machine claims (it's what it says) that it can turn 'ordinary' water into alkaline water and good for health. It's not the machine that I ask, but it's the alkaline property that I want to know.

Why is the walter alkalinized? Is it OH-?
I read that alkalinized water is good for health
And I also read that Hydroxide is a radical, and radical is not good for our health.

Perhaps someone can explain to me, where does the alkaline property come from?
Is OH- is really bad for our health.
Or is OH neutral is the radical agent while OH- is actually good.
Thanks for any explanations. :smile:
OH(-) which is anion is *entirely* different entity than OH(*) which is radical.
Electrolysis of water contaminated with certain species like chlorides would make it alkaline but would also produce some free chlorine and hypochlorites in it.
These are killing bacterias so such method would be useful in some Third World countries where access to clean drinking water is not guarateed.
In First World such water would most likely be harmful comparing to ordinary tap water.
So, assuming that you live in First World, you have fallen victim of common quackery.
You can safely dispose of your miracle doing gizmos into your bin basket.
 
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Martin0001 said:
OH(-) which is anion is *entirely* different entity than OH(*) which is radical.
Yes, I just read that this morning. Now, as Bystander tell me to go back, I'm reading 'How to calculate pH'.
Thanks for your respond.
 

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