If you will analyze alkalinity in the field, it is recommended that you use a digital titrator instead of a buret because the buret is fragile and more difficult to set up and use in the field. This can be done in the field or in the lab. Analytical and equipment considerationsįor total alkalinity, a double endpoint titration using a pH meter (or pH "pocket pal") and a digital titrator or buret is recommended. At this pH all the alkaline compounds in the sample are "used up." The result is reported as milligrams per liter of calcium carbonate (mg/L CaCO 3). Total alkalinity is measured by measuring the amount of acid (e.g., sulfuric acid) needed to bring the sample to a pH of 4.2. It's one of the best measures of the sensitivity of the stream to acid inputs.Īlkalinity in streams is influenced by rocks and soils, salts, certain plant activities, and certain industrial wastewater discharges. Measuring alkalinity is important in determining a stream's ability to neutralize acidic pollution from rainfall or wastewater.
Without this acid-neutralizing capacity, any acid added to a stream would cause an immediate change in the pH.
They usually do this by combining with the H+ ions to make new compounds.
Alkaline compounds in the water such as bicarbonates (baking soda is one type), carbonates, and hydroxides remove H+ ions and lower the acidity of the water (which means increased pH). What is total alkalinity and why is it important?Īlkalinity is a measure of the capacity of water to neutralize acids (see pH description).
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