Florida Wastewater Practice Test

On what scale is pH measured?

1. -1 to 15

2. 0 to 14

3. 1 to 10

4. 0 to 7

The correct answer is: 0 to 14

The pH scale is measured from 0 to 14, which reflects the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, meaning the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) equals that of hydroxide ions (OH-). Values below 7 indicate acidic conditions, where the concentration of hydrogen ions is greater, while values above 7 indicate basic (or alkaline) conditions, where the concentration of hydroxide ions is greater. This scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number change on the scale represents a tenfold change in acidity or basicity. By establishing the range as 0 to 14, this measure allows for a clear understanding of the chemical properties of different substances in solutions, which is particularly useful in wastewater treatment processes. Understanding the pH is crucial in many areas of environmental science and engineering, especially when monitoring and treating wastewater to ensure it meets regulatory standards before it is released back into the environment.