1. Acids, Bases and pH
The Power of Hydrogen

2. pH Scale Tells us the concentration (how much) H+ ions in a solution
Ranges from 0-14
7 is neutral
Equal concentration of H+ and OH- ions
Example: Water

3. pH Scale Lower pH = Greater H+ ion concentration
Solutions ranging from are acidic
Higher pH= Greater OH- solution
Solutions ranging from are basic

4. pH Scale

5. Acids Any compound that forms H+ ions in a solution
pH value of below 7
Strong acids have a pH of 0-3
The lower you go on the scale the stronger the acid
The stomach produces hydrochloric acid (strong) to help digest food
Taste sour

6. Bases Any substance that produces OH- (Hydroxide) ions
pH value above 7
May also be referred to as Alkaline
Strong bases have a pH of 11-14
The higher you go on the scale the stronger the base
Example:
Hand soap is a weak base, Bleach is a strong base

7. Buffers Weak acids or bases that help control pH levels
The human body stays between and uses buffers to maintain a steady pH
Human blood is slightly basic while human saliva is slightly acidic
Why do you think saliva is acidic?