Different substances can really change the pH levels in solutions. This is important for understanding how acids and bases work together.

The pH scale goes from 0 to 14, and here’s how it breaks down:

• Acidic solutions are below 7. They have a lot of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
• Neutral solutions are exactly 7. They are balanced.
• Basic solutions are above 7. They have more hydroxide ions (OH⁻).

Examples of Substances:

1. Hydrochloric Acid (HCl): When you mix it with water, it gives off H⁺ ions. This lowers the pH, making it more acidic.

2. Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): When it dissolves in water, it produces OH⁻ ions. This raises the pH, making it more basic.

It’s important to understand how these substances change pH because it helps in many areas, like farming. The pH of the soil can affect how well plants grow. It’s also important in medicine since the pH of body fluids can affect how well drugs work.