CALIBRATION OF 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. The pH meter measures the
difference in electrical potential between a pH electrode and a reference electrode, and so the
pH meter is sometimes referred to as a "potentiometric pH meter". The difference in electrical
potential relates to the acidity or pH of the solution. The pH meter is used in many applications
ranging from laboratory experimentation to quality control activities in pharmaceutical industry.

 One (1) point calibration

 Place enough of your selected pH buffer solution (pH 4.01 recommended) into a small
beaker so that it can accommodate a small magnetic stirrer bar, electrode(s) and
temperature probe.

 If your pH meter is not fitted with a temperature probe you will have to manually
measure the temperature of your selected pH buffer with a thermometer and adjust
the temperature control on your pH meter to the buffer's temperature.

 Remove the protective cap(s) from the electrode(s) and rinse of the electrodes and
temperature probe (if fitted) with distilled water using a squeeze bottle.
NOTE: Do not wipe the glass bulb as it can produce interfering static charges or
may permanently scratch the glass bulb affecting the electrode's response.

 Place electrode(s) and temperature probe into the selected pH buffer solution.
The solution is being stirred manually or with your magnetic stirrer.

 Then -

(a) adjust the slope/sensitivity control to read the true pH of the pH buffer
solution selected.

(b) if your pH meter does this automatically, follow the instructions supplied
with your pH meter.

Two (2) point calibration

 Place enough of pH 7.00 buffer solutions into a small beaker so that it can
accommodate a small magnetic stirrer bar, electrode(s) and temperature probe.

 Follow steps 2. - 4. of the one (1) point calibration procedure.

 Follow steps 1. - 4. of the one (1) point calibration procedure (i.e. using the pH 4.01
buffer)
 Alternate between steps 2 & 3, directly above, until practically no adjustments are
required

 Note: always start with the pH 7.00 buffer for your first adjustment.