What role does pH play in water quality?

pH is a crucial parameter in determining water quality because it significantly affects the solubility of various contaminants and the overall balance of nutrients and minerals in water. When pH levels are outside the typical range of 6.5 to 8.5, it can lead to changes in the chemical forms of dissolved substances. For instance, metals like lead, copper, and zinc become more soluble at lower pH levels, potentially leading to increased concentrations of these harmful contaminants in water.

Furthermore, pH influences the availability of nutrients for aquatic life, impacting biological processes such as photosynthesis and respiration. For example, at low pH, nitrogen in the form of ammonia can become toxic to aquatic organisms, while a higher pH can limit the availability of phosphorus, which is crucial for plant growth. Maintaining the appropriate pH level is essential to ensure both safety and ecological balance within water systems.