One of the most popular school science projects is to take the pH of water from different sources. Chances are your school and certainly not you does not have an electronic pH meter lying around, but you can still get an estimate of pH by using litmus paper. Litmus paper, which can be found at pet-supply stores to check the pH of aquariums is simply a strip of paper that, when a sample of water is dropped onto it, turns a certain color, giving a rough estimate of pH.
Excessively high and low pHs can be detrimental for the use of water. High pH causes a bitter taste, water pipes and water-using appliances become encrusted with deposits , and it depresses the effectiveness of the disinfection of chlorine, thereby causing the need for additional chlorine when pH is high. Low-pH water will corrode or dissolve metals and other substances.
Pollution can change a water's pH, which in turn can harm animals and plants living in the water. For instance, water coming out of an abandoned coal mine can have a pH of 2, which is very acidic and would definitely affect any fish crazy enough to try to live in it! By using the logarithm scale, this mine-drainage water would be , times more acidic than neutral water -- so stay out of abandoned mines.
The pH of precipitation, and water bodies, vary widely across the United States. Natural and human processes determine the pH of water. The National Atmospheric Deposition Program has developed maps showing pH patterns, such as the one below showing the spatial pattern of the pH of precipitation at field sites for You should be aware that this contour map was developed using the pH measurements at the specific sampling locations; thus, the contours and isolines were created using interpolation between data points.
You should not necessarily use the map to document the pH at other particular map locations, but rather, use the map as a general indicator of pH throughout the country. Note: This map shows one point in time, and since there has been a general reduction in things that cause acid rain.
A newer map might look very different than this one. Still, lower precipitation pH values still will occur in the northeastern U. Looking at water, you might think that it's the most simple thing around. Pure water is practically colorless, odorless, and tasteless. But it's not at all simple and plain and it is vital for all life on Earth. Where there is water there is life, and where water is scarce, life has to struggle or just "throw in the towel.
The USGS has been at the forefront of studying the impacts of acid rain for decades. How does acid rain form?
What does it do to the landscape? Can it burn you like battery acid? Keep reading to find out more Skip to main content. Search Search. Water Science School. To put things into perspective, a pH of 7 is neutral. This is the ideal pH for water in our bodies. A pH of 7 means that your solution is as pure as it can get.
Battery acid is an example of a pH of 0. Drain cleaner would be a pH of Water with a well-balanced pH level is a necessity, both for health and for practical reasons. For example, water with a low pH can negatively affect your plumbing, causing your pipes to deteriorate. In addition, water with a low pH tends to taste and look abnormal.
However, your saliva production may decrease as a result of age or certain medications or therapies. Staying hydrated is crucial to maintaining your body temperature.
Your body loses water through sweat during physical activity and in hot environments. Water consumption helps lubricate and cushion your joints, spinal cord, and tissues. This will help you enjoy physical activity and lessen discomfort caused by conditions like arthritis.
You need water to replenish the lost fluid from sweat. Your kidneys are also important for filtering out waste through urination. Adequate water intake helps your kidneys work more efficiently and helps to prevent kidney stones. Drinking plenty of water during physical activity is essential. Athletes may perspire up to 6 to 10 percent of body weight during physical activity. Negative effects of exercise in the heat without enough water can include serious medical conditions, like decreased blood pressure and hyperthermia.
Extreme dehydration can cause seizures and even death. Contrary to what some believe, experts confirm drinking water before, during, and after a meal will help your body break down the food you eat more easily. This will help you digest food more effectively and get the most out of your meals.
Research shows the body adapts to changes in the consistency of food and stomach contents, whether more solid or more liquid. In addition to helping with food breakdown, water also helps dissolve vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from your food. It then delivers these vitamin components to the rest of your body for use.
Studies have linked body fat and weight loss with drinking water in both overweight girls and women. Drinking more water while dieting and exercising may just help you lose extra pounds. Water carries helpful nutrients and oxygen to your entire body. Reaching your daily water intake will improve your circulation and have a positive impact on your overall health.
Drinking enough water can help prevent certain medical conditions. These include:. Water also helps you absorb important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from your food, which will increase your chances of staying healthy. Drinking water may activate your metabolism.
A boost in metabolism has been associated with a positive impact on energy level. One study found that drinking milliliters of water boosted the metabolic rate by 30 percent in both men and women. These effects appeared to last over an hour. Proper hydration is key to staying in tip-top cognitive shape. Research indicates that not drinking enough water can negatively impact your focus, alertness, and short-term memory.
Not getting enough water can also affect your mood.
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