Bitesize GCSE Chemistry - Chemical Changes: The pH Scale

Introduction

• Title: Bitesize GCSE Chemistry - 3. Chemical Changes - 1. The pH Scale
• Presenters: Sunayana and Tulela
• Release Date: 29 Feb 2024
• Duration: 10 minutes
• Focus: Definition of acids, alkalis, and the pH scale

Key Concepts

Acids and Alkalis

• Acids: Substances that release hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.
• Alkalis: A type of base that dissolves in water to release hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
• Importance in daily life: Used in various products and processes.

The pH Scale

• Definition: A scale used to specify how acidic or basic a water-based solution is.
• Range: 0 to 14
  • pH < 7: Acidic solutions
  • pH = 7: Neutral solutions (e.g., pure water)
  • pH > 7: Alkaline (basic) solutions

Measuring pH

• Indicators: Chemicals that change color based on the pH of the solution (e.g., litmus paper, universal indicator).
• pH Meters: Electronic devices that measure the pH more accurately.

Importance of Understanding pH

• Essential for various chemical reactions and processes in industries and laboratories.
• Important in everyday applications such as gardening, cooking, and cleaning.

Additional Resources

• More episodes available on related topics such as reactivity series of metals, salt formation, redox reactions, and electrolysis.
• Episode URL for further exploration: BBC Sounds Episode