What formula represents pH?

The formula that represents pH is -log[H+]. pH is a scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution. It is defined as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration ([H+]) in a solution. This means that as the concentration of hydrogen ions increases, the pH value decreases, indicating a more acidic solution. Conversely, as the concentration of hydrogen ions decreases, the pH value increases, pointing to a more basic solution.

Using this logarithmic scale allows for a more manageable representation of the wide range of hydrogen ion concentrations that can exist in different solutions, as these concentrations can vary from very low (strong acids) to very high (strong bases). It’s important to understand that each unit change in pH represents a tenfold change in hydrogen ion concentration, which is a key aspect of acid-base chemistry.

This foundational concept is crucial in wastewater treatment because the pH of the water being treated can significantly influence chemical reactions, biological activity, and the solubility and toxicity of various pollutants. Thus, understanding the significance of this formula is essential for monitoring and controlling pH levels in wastewater treatment processes.