What Is the pH Calculator?
pH quantifies acidity: pH < 7 is acidic, pH = 7 is neutral, pH > 7 is basic/alkaline.
How Does the pH Calculator Work?
pH = −log₁₀[H⁺]. A pH of 4 means [H⁺] = 10⁻⁴ mol/L.
pH Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
The pH scale is logarithmic. Every unit change represents a 10× change in acidity.
How to Use the pH Calculator
- Choose your known quantity (concentration or pH) and enter the value.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
[H⁺] = 10⁻⁴ mol/L
Input Values:
mode:concentration
hConcentration:0.0001
Worked Steps: pH = −log(10⁻⁴) = 4, strongly acidic.
Understanding Your Result
Lower pH = more acidic (more H⁺). pOH = 14 − pH measures hydroxide concentration.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Temperature: Kw changes with temperature, shifting the neutral point. Standard conditions are 25°C.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Chemistry lab, pool water testing, soil chemistry, blood pH monitoring.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes 25°C. Activity coefficients assumed = 1 (ideal dilute solution).
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Uses IEEE 754 Math.log10(); accurate to ~12 significant figures.