Results for “buffer”

buffer

A substance that reduces change in the acidity of a solution when an acid or base is added.

Used in 8 profiles

alkalinity

Measure of the buffering capacity of a given water body, i.e. its capacity to neutralize acids and bases thereby maintaining a fairly stable pH. Water containing compounds, such as bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides has a stronger such capacity and is referred to as hard water, while water lacking or deficient in them is termed soft water. Soft water aquaria tend to be susceptible to pH crashes if not maintained correctly.

Used in 6 profiles

aragonite

Naturally-occurring, crsytalline form of calcium carbonate with a notable buffering capacity. Popular as a substrate or substrate additive in marine and freshwater aquaria where pH and hardness must be maintained at high levels, and has a more rapid, effective effect than coral sand, for example.

pH crash

Sudden and rapid drop in pH, usually occurring in aquaria or ponds with poor buffering capacity. Can be fatal to fishes.

sand

Fine-grained silicate material commonly used as substrate. Often but not always chemically inert, and can therefore be used as a buffer.

Used in 846 profiles