Alkaline water, characterized by its elevated pH level, has become a subject of considerable interest. This type of water has a pH greater than 7, distinguishing it from neutral or acidic water. Its popularity stems from various claims regarding its potential effects on the body.
Understanding Water Alkalinity
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 indicates neutrality; values below 7 signify acidity, and values above 7 denote alkalinity. For instance, lemon juice is acidic with a pH around 2, pure water is neutral at 7, and alkaline water typically falls between pH 8 and 9.
Water’s alkalinity is primarily influenced by the presence of dissolved minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates. These minerals contribute to the water’s buffering capacity, which is its ability to resist changes in pH. The specific mineral content and their concentrations determine the extent of water’s alkalinity.
Factors Influencing Alkalinity Stability
The stability of alkaline water’s pH is not constant and can be affected by several environmental factors. One significant factor is the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air. When water is exposed to the atmosphere, it can absorb CO2, which then reacts with water to form carbonic acid. This process introduces hydrogen ions into the water, increasing its acidity and lowering its pH.
Temperature also plays a role in influencing alkalinity. Higher temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions within the water, potentially leading to a decrease in pH over time.
Light exposure can similarly impact the pH of alkaline water. Direct sunlight may contribute to the degradation of alkalinity by altering the chemical stability of dissolved compounds. Storing water in clear containers under bright conditions can reduce its pH.
The material of the storage container also matters for maintaining alkalinity. Some plastics can leach substances into the water or interact with it, potentially altering its pH over time.
The presence of organic matter or other contaminants can further influence water chemistry and pH. Microbes and impurities in the water may undergo processes that produce acidic or alkaline byproducts, thereby affecting the overall pH balance.
Strategies for Maintaining Alkalinity
To preserve water alkalinity, careful storage methods are beneficial. Using airtight containers is an effective strategy to minimize contact with atmospheric carbon dioxide. Sealing the water prevents CO2 absorption, which helps maintain the water’s pH level.
The choice of container material significantly influences alkalinity retention. Glass containers are recommended due to their inert nature, meaning they are less likely to react with the water or leach chemicals. If plastic containers are used, selecting high-quality, BPA-free options is advisable to reduce potential chemical interactions. Stainless steel bottles, particularly double-walled and vacuum-sealed, are also suitable as they help maintain temperature and prevent air exposure.
Storing alkaline water in a cool, dark environment helps mitigate the effects of temperature and light. Keeping water away from direct sunlight and heat can slow down chemical reactions that might otherwise reduce its pH. Refrigeration can further extend the shelf life by providing a stable, cooler temperature.
Minimizing the time water is left open or exposed to air is also important. It is generally recommended to consume freshly prepared or opened alkaline water within a few days. When stored properly in a sealed, cool, dark container, alkaline water can maintain its pH for up to two weeks.
Testing Water Alkalinity
Verifying water alkalinity at home can be done using several methods. pH test strips offer a simple and quick way to get an approximate pH reading. These strips change color when dipped in water, and the resulting color is then compared to a chart to determine the pH level. While convenient, pH test strips are less precise, with an accuracy range of 0.5 to 1 pH unit.
Liquid pH test kits provide a more accurate assessment than test strips. These kits involve adding a few drops of a reagent solution to a water sample, which then causes the water to change color according to its pH. The color is then matched against a provided color chart for a more refined pH measurement.
For the most precise measurements, digital pH meters are used. These electronic devices feature a probe that is immersed in the water, providing a numerical pH reading on a digital display. Digital meters offer high accuracy, within 0.01 to 0.05 pH units, but they require regular calibration with buffer solutions to maintain their precision.