What is the range of the pH scale?

The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, with a range that typically spans from 0 to 14. A pH value of 7 is considered neutral, values below 7 indicate acidic conditions, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity. This scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number change on the scale corresponds to a tenfold change in acidity or alkalinity.

Understanding the range of the pH scale is crucial for water operators, as they need to monitor and adjust the pH of water to ensure it meets regulatory standards and is safe for consumption. Various water treatment processes may also be employed to manage pH, depending on the source of the water and its intended use. Hence, recognizing that the full range of the pH scale is from 0 to 14 is foundational knowledge for water operators.