Question

Write notes on the importance of pH in everyday life.

Answer 1

1. pH in our digestive system:
   Hydrochloric acid produced in our stomach helps in the digestion of food without harming the stomach. During indigestion, the stomach produces too much acid and this causes pain and irritation. the pH of stomach fluid is approximately 2.0

    

2. pH changes are the cause of tooth decay:
   White enamel coating of our teeth is calcium phosphate, the hardest substance in our body. Toothpaste which is generally basic and used for cleaning the teeth can neutralize the excess acid and prevent tooth decay.

    

3. a pH of soil:
   In agriculture, the pH of the soil is very important. Citrus fruits require slightly alkaline soil, while rice requires acidic soil and sugarcane requires neutral soil.

    

4. pH of rain water:
   The pH of rainwater is approximately 7 which means that it is neutral and also represents its high purity. If the atmospheric air is polluted with oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, they get dissolved in rainwater and make its pH less than 7. Thus, if the pH of rainwater is less than 7, then it is called acid rain. When acid rain flows into the rivers it lowers the pH of the river water. The survival of aquatic life in such rivers becomes difficult.