A pH meter is a scientific instrument used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It provides a numerical value on a scale from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral, below 7 indicates acidity, and above 7 indicates alkalinity. This tool is essential in various fields, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science, helping researchers and professionals understand the chemical properties of liquids.
Using a pH meter is straightforward. The device typically consists of a glass electrode that is sensitive to hydrogen ions in the solution. When the electrode is immersed in a liquid, it generates a voltage that the meter converts into a pH reading, allowing users to quickly assess the solution's properties.