Ionized water is water processed to alter its pH level and electrical properties. This transformation modifies the water’s molecular structure. The process aims to separate the water into two streams with different characteristics. This article will explain the scientific principles and components involved.
The Science Behind Ionization
The fundamental scientific principle underpinning water ionization is electrolysis. This process uses an electric current to drive chemical reactions. When current is passed through water, its molecules (H2O) break down, yielding hydrogen ions (H+), hydroxide ions (OH-), molecular hydrogen (H2), and oxygen gas (O2).
Water molecules, though neutral, can dissociate into ions. An electric current attracts these ions to positive and negative electrodes, orchestrating their separation. The flow of electrons facilitates the rearrangement of hydrogen and oxygen atoms, creating water with distinct ionic compositions.
Key Components of a Water Ionizer
A water ionizer contains several essential parts. Electrodes are a primary component, serving as conductors for the electric current. These are often made from durable materials like platinum-coated titanium, which resist corrosion during electrolysis.
An ion-permeable membrane, also known as a separator, divides the electrolysis chamber into two distinct sections. It selectively allows specific ions to pass through while blocking others, maintaining the separation of the water streams. The power supply provides the direct electrical current to the electrodes. Before electrical processing, a filtration system purifies the incoming water, removing impurities, sediments, and contaminants.
The Step-by-Step Ionization Process
The process of creating ionized water begins when tap water enters the ionizer. This incoming water undergoes an initial filtration step. The filtration system removes various impurities, chlorine, and other unwanted substances, ensuring the water is clean.
After filtration, the purified water flows into the electrolysis chamber. This chamber houses the electrodes and the ion-permeable membrane. The membrane divides the chamber into two distinct compartments, isolating the reactions that will occur at each electrode.
Once inside the chamber, the power supply sends a direct electric current to the electrodes. The electrodes consist of a positively charged anode and a negatively charged cathode. This electrical charge initiates the separation of water molecules.
At the cathode, the negatively charged electrode, water molecules (H2O) gain electrons. This reaction results in the formation of hydroxide ions (OH-) and molecular hydrogen gas (H2). This process increases the concentration of hydroxide ions, contributing to the alkalinity of the water produced in this compartment.
Conversely, at the anode, the positively charged electrode, water molecules lose electrons. This reaction generates hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen gas (O2). The increased concentration of hydrogen ions makes the water acidic. The ion-permeable membrane acts as a selective barrier, allowing newly formed hydroxide ions to migrate towards the alkaline side and hydrogen ions towards the acidic side, while keeping the two water streams separate. The alkaline water is directed to one outlet, while the acidic water exits through another.
Understanding the Outputs: Alkaline and Acidic Water
The electrolysis process within a water ionizer produces two distinct types of water. Alkaline water has a higher pH level, typically above 7. This water is rich in hydroxide ions (OH-), which are generated at the cathode during electrolysis.
Alkaline water also contains dissolved molecular hydrogen (H2), a byproduct of the electron-gaining reactions at the negative electrode. Acidic water has a lower pH level, generally below 7, and a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (H+), formed at the anode as water molecules lose electrons. These two streams are kept separate by the internal membrane, allowing for their distinct collection.