Water sample analysis: pH
I can the describe how to test the pH of different water samples and suggest why they may differ in terms of dissolved substances.
Water sample analysis: pH
I can the describe how to test the pH of different water samples and suggest why they may differ in terms of dissolved substances.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The pH of water samples can be determined using appropriate methods and/or instruments e.g pH meter.
- pH data can be analysed to assess if water contains impurities.
- Different substances dissolve in different types of water.
- The substances that dissolve in different waters can affect the water's acidity or alkalinity (i.e. its pH).
- Pure water is necessary for laboratory tests; it must be neutral (i.e. pH 7).
Common misconception
All water samples are neutral (i.e. pH of 7).
The acidity / alkalinity of water samples is affected by the dissolved substances in each sample.
Keywords
Sample - A smaller portion of a larger quantity of a substance.
Dissolve - When a substance's particles separate and spread throughout the particles of a solvent resulting in it no longer being seen.
PH - A number that shows the alkalinity or acidity of a solution.
Equipment
Samples of 'pure', 'sea', 'rain' and 'ground' water; dropping pipettes; universal indicator paper and reference chart.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
Loading...