How to Acidify Water

The acidity of water is indicated by the pH level, which is the measure of acidic hydrogen ions or basic hydroxyl ions. High levels of hydrogen ions means that the liquid is more acidic and has a pH below 7.0. High levels of hydroxyl ions means that the liquid is more basic and has a pH above 7.0. Agricultural irrigation and beer brewing are two activities that require the acidification of water. In order to acidify water to a particular pH, a weak or dilute acid must be used.

pH meter
Diluted acid (25-percent sulfuric acid)
Distilled water
500 ml glass beaker
Glass stirring rod
10ml pipette or dropper
Chemical-resistant gloves
Safety goggles

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the baseline pH for the water. Fill the 500 ml beaker 3/4 full with distilled water. Using the pH meter, determine the pH of the water. Neutral pH is 7.0 and the water should be at or very close to neutral.
- 2
  Determine the required acidity level for the water. Typical agricultural applications require a pH range from 5.2 to 6.8. Assume the target pH is 6.0.
- 3
  Add diluted acid to the water using the 10 ml pipette. Ensure that goggles and gloves are worn at all times when handling the acid. After the acid has been added, stir the solution with the glass rod and take another reading using the pH meter. Repeat until the pH measures 6.0.

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