The pH scale is a cool tool that helps us figure out how acidic or basic things are!

This scale goes from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, which means it’s neither acidic nor basic.

Here’s a simple way to understand it:

Everyday Examples:

• Acids (pH < 7):

  • Lemon Juice: It has a pH of about 2, which is very acidic. That’s why it tastes sour!
  • Vinegar: It usually has a pH of around 2 to 3 and is often used in cooking.

• Neutral (pH = 7):

  • Pure Water: This is our standard. It’s not acidic or basic at all!

• Bases (pH > 7):

  • Baking Soda: Its pH is usually around 8 to 9. It’s great for baking and helps to balance out acids.
  • Soap: It usually has a pH of 9 to 10. This helps it clean by breaking down grease.

Knowing about the pH scale is helpful not just in cooking, but also in gardening and cleaning. It shows how chemistry is a part of our everyday lives!