logo
AAT Bioquest

Are pH and acidity the same?

Posted May 24, 2024


Answer

Although pH and acidity are related, they are not the same. Instead, pH is a way to measure acidity.

Acidity

Acidity refers specifically to the concentration of hydrogen (H+) ions in relation to hydroxyl (OH-) ions. A solution is defined as acidic when it has more H+ ions as compared to OH- ions. The higher the concentration of H+ ions, the more acidic the solution.

pH

pH is a numerical scale that measures how acidic or basic a solution is on a scale from 0 to 14. It's based on the concentration of H+ ions in the solution.

  • A pH of neutral is neutral, indicating the solution has equal concentrations of H+
  • and OH- ions.
  • A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution – it has more H+ ions. Acidity levels
  • decrease going from 0 to 7, with 0 indicating strongest acidity.
  • A pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution - it has more OH- ions. 
  • Basicity levels decrease going from 14 to 7, with 14 indicating strongest basicity. 

So, pH provides a specific measurement for acidity on a defined scale but it is not the same as acidity.

Additional resources

Effect of pH and titratable acidity on enamel and dentine erosion

Intracellular pH

Weak Acid pH Calculator v

Weak Base pH Calculator

We use cookies to enhance your browser experience and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies.

Accept All
Customize
Reject All