pH7

 The pH system.

What is pH? pH is a measure of a liquid's acid content based on specific hydrogen ions. pH is measured using a scale measuring 0-14, with 0 being very acidic. 7 is neutral and anything 6 or under is considered acidic and anything 8 and over is considered a base.



pH of water Pure water is neutral, (7) but rarely is it pure in natural settings. Most aquatic organisms are able to tolerate slight fluctuations in pH. Acidic water can still evaporate, and acid rain is created. Acidic precipitation can temporally change the aquatic ecosystem's pH levels. Acids sink and settle into sediments and enter organisms through feeding and diffusion. The tainted organisms may still be eaten, corrupting the steps of the food chain.



pH close to home Pennsylvania rocks contain minerals that contribute to acidification. Pennsylvania has many coal mines. Our streams and rivers prevent large pH changes through constant movement. Some of the acids become part of the water cycle. We receive some of the most acidic rainfall in the United States.