Growing Concerns in the US

The Science Behind pH

Recommended for you

pH the: Understanding the Science Behind pH Levels

  • pH and the Environment: pH levels in ecosystems affect the balance of life, influencing the availability of nutrients and the health of plants and animals. For example, acidic rainwater can harm aquatic ecosystems.
  • How pH Works

    At its core, pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. Think of it like a seesaw: as hydrogen ions increase, the pH level decreases, and vice versa. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is alkaline. pH levels are essential because they affect the availability of essential nutrients and the ability of our bodies to absorb them.

  • pH and Food: The pH of food can affect digestion and nutrient absorption. For instance, a diet high in acidic foods can lead to increased acidity in the body.