PH meter

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

pH Meter

A pH meter is a scientific instrument that measures the hydrogen-ion activity in water-based solutions, indicating its acidity or alkalinity expressed as pH.

History

The development of the pH meter is attributed to the work of Arnold Orville Beckman, who invented the first commercially successful electronic pH meter in 1934. This innovation revolutionized the field of chemistry and biology by providing a simple and accurate method to measure pH.

Beckman Model M pH Meter

Principle of Operation

A pH meter consists of a voltmeter attached to a pH-responsive electrode and a reference electrode. The pH-responsive electrode is typically a glass electrode, which is sensitive to hydrogen ions. The reference electrode provides a stable voltage against which the pH-responsive electrode can be compared. The potential difference between these electrodes is measured and converted into pH units.

Components

Glass Electrode

The glass electrode is the most common type of pH-responsive electrode. It consists of a thin glass membrane that is sensitive to hydrogen ion concentration.

Reference Electrode

The reference electrode is usually a silver chloride or calomel electrode, which provides a constant reference potential.

Meter

The meter is an electronic device that measures the potential difference between the glass and reference electrodes and converts it into a pH reading.

Beckman Model 72 pH Meter

Calibration

Calibration of a pH meter is essential for accurate measurements. It is typically performed using standard buffer solutions with known pH values. The meter is adjusted to match the pH of the buffer solutions, ensuring accurate readings.

Applications

pH meters are widely used in various fields, including:

A typical pH meter

Types of pH Meters

Benchtop pH Meters

These are used in laboratories and provide high accuracy and precision.

Portable pH Meters

Portable pH meters are used in fieldwork and are designed for ease of use and transport.

Pocket pH Meters

Pocket pH meters are compact and convenient for quick measurements.

Beckman Pocket pH Meter

Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a pH meter is crucial for its longevity and accuracy. This includes regular calibration, cleaning of electrodes, and proper storage.

Related Pages

George Garcelon using a Beckman pH meter
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD