What does the pH scale measure?

The pH scale measures the acidity and alkalinity of a solution. It is a logarithmic scale ranging from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is considered neutral, meaning that the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) is equal to the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-). A pH value below 7 indicates an acidic solution with a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, while a value above 7 indicates an alkaline (or basic) solution with a lower concentration of hydrogen ions.

Understanding the pH of a solution is essential in many biological and chemical processes, as it can affect enzyme activity, chemical reactions, and overall biological functions. This makes it a critical factor in fields such as biochemistry, environmental science, and medicine.