What is the effect of adding a base to water?

Adding a base to water raises the pH. Bases are substances that can accept hydrogen ions (H+) or donate hydroxide ions (OH-) in solution. When a base is added to water, it increases the concentration of hydroxide ions. This shift in the balance of hydrogen and hydroxide ions results in a higher pH value, moving the solution further away from the acidic range toward a neutral or alkaline range.

This chemical behavior is fundamental to many processes in water treatment and affects how water interacts with other substances and materials. Higher pH levels can influence the solubility of metals, the effectiveness of disinfection methods, and the biological activity in water systems. Understanding the impact of pH on water quality is essential for managing treatment processes effectively.