Im lost

Can someone explain to me in the easiest words (like for dummies) what is the difference between Alkalinity and PH? And how do I test for alkalinity?

 

Basically, ph is the measure of acidity of the water. A ph of 7 is neutral. I believe if I remember correctly, ph depends on the amount of H+ ions for acidity and HO- ions for base. Alkalinity if the measure of carbonates in the water as well as several other compounds related to carbonates. It's like the hardness of the water. You can easily measure it by buying a test kit for alkalinity.

 

k that helps. So then they are two different tests kits. one for ph and another for Alkalinity. Right?

 

yes, some test kits you can buy with them both, or buy them separately.

 

thank you so much for your help. it only took me 8 months to get this answer.

 

the more your alk you have the more stable the ph will become. That is why thay call it buffer. sea water is 7-9 if I remember correctly but if you keep your system a bit higher it will help keep things stable. Around 10-12 is what my books recomend.

 

yea, again, If I remember, corals and inverts tend to turn the water more acidic as they grow. (honestly, I can't remember the exact process, it may have to do with the release of carbon dioxide, also why global warming is turning the oceans more acidic) anyways, so H+ ions are released turning the water more acidic, alk, the buffer releases more OH- ions, helping to neutralize the acid. Hopefully that helps you get a better understanding of the relationship.

 

why did it take 8 months?

 

Because anyone I asked gave me a long drawn out explanation that went 10ft over my head that I had no idea as to what they were trying to tell me. chemistry is not my strong suit.
LOL I just asked the LFS if they sold a alk test. The answer I got was "you mean a ph test? "
By the way I live in Ontario Canada. I don't think we have many educated ppl here where salt water is concerned.

 

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