Moomoomath and Science: Understanding the pH Scale

What is pH?

• pH Definition: Stands for "potential of hydrogen."
• Measurement: Indicates the concentration of hydrogen ions in a water-based substance.
• Scale: Ranges from 0 to 14.
  • Neutral: pH of 7
  • Acidic: pH less than 7
  • Basic (Alkaline): pH greater than 7

Remembering the pH Scale

• Neutral Point: 7 is considered neutral.
  • Mnemonic: "Lucky 7" or "7 is heaven."
• Acids: Below 7
  • Mnemonic: Think of lower numbers as acidic.
• Bases: Above 7
  • Mnemonic: "When you base jump, you jump from a high place," so base is a high number.

Examples of Acids and Bases

• Acids:
  • Milk (slightly acidic)
  • Apple juice
  • Lemon juice
  • Stomach acid
  • Taste: Usually sour
• Bases:
  • Eggs
  • Baking soda
  • Ammonia
  • Bleach
  • Taste: Usually bitter
  • Texture: Can be slippery

pH Scale Colors

• Acidic Colors: Yellow, orange, to red
• Basic Colors: Green, blue, to purple
  • Mnemonic: "B for base and blue"

Chemistry of Acids and Bases

• Acid Creation: Gain hydrogen ions, forming hydronium.
• Base Creation: Lose hydrogen ions, forming hydroxide.
• Change Representation: Each pH unit represents a tenfold change in acidity or basicity.
  • Example: Water with pH 5 is 10 times more acidic than water with pH 6.

Additional Resources

• Explore further with a suggested playlist on pH.
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