How to Detect pH in Water

The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or basicity of liquids. The scale ranges from 1 to 14, with very low measures being extremely acidic substances such as hydrochloric acid, and very high measures being extremely basic substances such as bleach. Water is neutral. Pure, uncontaminated water falls at exactly 7. Testing water, especially drinking water, is important to ensure it falls within a safe range (6.5 to 8.5) for consumption. Water that tests beyond that range, on either end of the scale, becomes increasingly corrosive and hazardous.

Things You'll Need

• Clean glass
• pH test strips

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Instructions

• 1

  Pour a glass of water. Allow it to sit for a minute or two to let it settle.

• 2

  Dip a clean, dry pH test strip into the water. It is important that the strip be completely dry and uncontaminated. Even the oils on your fingers can alter the color-coding of the strips and give you potentially incorrect results.

• 3

  Hold the pH test strip under the water for a full minute to ensure accurate results. Avoid moving the strip while it is submerged.

• 4

  Remove the pH test strip and allow 30 seconds for the color-coding on the strips to fully activate.

• 5

  Compare the color of the pH test strip with the pH guide printed on the pH test strip container. Acids and bases respond differently to the chemicals of the pH test strip, resulting in different colors.