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MADHAV INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE GWALIOR

(A Govt aided UGC autonomous &NAAC accredited Institute affiliated to RGPV Bhopal)

Project report

On

The Importance of Water Alkalinity in our life

Submitted by

Students name Enrollment no.

Arpit Goyal 0901ET221011
Ashutosh Rana 0901ET221012
Ashwani Sharma 0901ET221013
Atharva Goyal 0901ET221014
Ayush Yadav 0901ET221015

under the guidance of

Dr. Preeti Gupta

Department of Applied Science

Session Nov 2022- March 2023

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Table of Content

1. Introduction
1.1. Alkalinity
1.2. Concentration of Alkalinity
1.3. Determination of Alkalinity

2. Measuring alkalinity
3. The Benefits of Alkaline Water
3.1. To neutralize acid in the body
3.2. Improve hydration
3.3. Act as an antioxidant
3.4. . Alkaline water is important for aquatic life
3.5. Benefits of Alkaline Water and Scientific Evidence
4. Potential Risk of Alkaline Water
4.1. Disruption of acid-base balance
4.2. Digestive problems
4.3. Kidney problems
4.4. Skeletal problems
5. Conclusion
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Introduction

1.1 Alkalinity
Alkalinity is a chemical measurement of a water’s ability to neutralize acids. Alkalinity is also a measure
of a water’s buffering capacity or its ability to resist changes in pH upon the addition of acids or bases.
Alkalinity of natural waters is due primarily to the presence of weak acid salts although strong bases may also
contribute (i.e. OH- ) in extreme environments. Bicarbonates represent the major form of alkalinity in natural
waters; its source being the partitioning of CO2 from the atmosphere and the weathering of carbonate minerals
in rocks and soil. Other salts of weak acids, such as borate, silicates, ammonia, phosphates, and organic bases
from natural organic matter, may be present in small amounts. Alkalinity, by convention, is reported as mg/L
CaCO3 since most alkalinity is derived from the weathering of carbonate minerals.

1.2. Concentration of Alkalinity

As mentioned previously, alkalinity in natural waters is primarily due to carbonate species and the
following set of chemical equilibria is established in waters

where H2CO3 * represents the total concentration of dissolved CO2 and H2CO3. The first chemical equation
represents the equilibrium of CO2 in the atmosphere with dissolved CO2 in the water. The equilibrium
constant, Henry’s Law, for this reaction is

The equilibrium relationships for the last two reactions may be expressed as
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1.3 Determination of Alkalinity

To determine the alkalinity, a known volume of water sample is titrated with a standard solution of strong acid
to a pH value in the approximate range of 4 to 5. Titrations can distinguish between three types of alkalinities;
carbonate, bicarbonate, and total alkalinity. Carbonate alkalinity is determined by titration of the water sample
to the phenolphthalein indicator endpoint, or approximately a pH of 8.3. Total alkalinity is determined by
titration of the water sample to the endpoint of the methyl orange indicator, or an approximate pH of 4.5. The
difference between the two is the bicarbonate alkalinity. Note that only approximate pH endpoints can be given.
This is because the exact endpoint is dependent on the total concentration of carbonate species in solution. The
higher the total alkalinity, the lower the endpoint will be. A detailed discussion on this is given in Snoeyink and
Jenkins (1980). The following endpoints, corresponding to total alkalinity concentrations, are suggested in
Standard Methods (1992): pH = 5.1 for total alkalinities of about 50 mg/L, pH = 4.8 for 150 mg/L, and 4.5 for
500 mg/L. This lowering of the endpoint can be seen by drawing a pC-pH diagram (see the pC-pH program) for
the three systems and observing the intersection of the HCO3 - and H+ lines. Several points should be noted
about the titration curve.

(1) At pH = 10.7, the [HCO3 - ] equals the [OH- ]. This is called an equivalence point and is the endpoint of the
caustic alkalinity and total acidity titrations.

(2) At pH = 8.3, the [H2CO3] equals the [CO3 2- ]. This is the endpoint for carbonate alkalinity and CO2 acidity
titrations. In the alkalinity titration virtually all of the CO3 2- has reacted (thus, the term carbonate alkalinity) and
half of the HCO3 2- has reacted at the endpoint. Carbonate alkalinity is also known as phenolphthalein alkalinity
as this is the color indicator used for the endpoint.

-
(3) At pH = 4.5, the [H+ ] equals the [HCO3 ]. This is the endpoint for mineral acidity and total alkalinity
titrations.
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MESURING ALKALINITY

One common method the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses for measuring alkalinity is to use take a water
sample and to add acid to it while checking the pH of the water as the acid is added. An initial pH reading of the
water is taken and then small amounts of acid are added in increments, the water is stirred, and the pH is taken.
This is done many times. In the beginning, the acid added will be neutralized by compounds in the water, such
as bicarbonates. As more acid is added, the bicarbonates get "used up", as it is also being neutralized by the
acid. Eventually all the acid-neutralizing compounds are used up. After this point, any acid added to the water
will lower the pH in a linear fashion, and the scientist will be able to see this reflection point by viewing a line
chart of the amount of acid added to the water and the resulting pH. The point at which the change in pH line
becomes linear is used to determine the water's alkalinity.

In this picture, a USGS scientist is performing an alkalinity titration to determine the alkalinity of a water
sample. Notice the pH meter in the background (reading 5.477 at the moment). The larger grey tube going into
the beaker is the pH probe. The black device on the right side pushes a fixed amount of acid through the white
tube, which goes into the right side of the beaker of water. The black box on the bottom has a magnet that
twirls, which then twirls a small magnet placed in the bottom of the beaker, which keeps the water sample
stirred

Measuring a water sample in a lab to determine alkalinity.

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The Benefits of Alkaline Water

2.1 To neutralize acid in the body

The idea behind the claim that alkaline water can neutralize acidity in the body is that it can help balance the
body's pH levels. The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, with a pH of 7 being neutral, a
pH less than 7 being acidic, and a pH greater than 7 being alkaline. The pH of the human body is slightly
alkaline, with a normal range of 7.35 to 7.45.

Proponents of alkaline water argue that a diet high in acid-forming foods, such as processed foods, sugar, and
meat, can lead to acidity in the body, which can lead to a variety of health problems. They claim that drinking
alkaline water can neutralize acidity in the body by helping to balance the body's pH levels.

However, there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim. The human body has several mechanisms in
place to regulate its pH levels, including the respiratory and renal systems, which can help balance acidity and
alkalinity. Additionally, the stomach and small intestine secrete acid to aid in digestion and the intestines have a
natural buffer system to neutralize stomach acid.

It's important to note that while alkaline water may have some potential benefits, it's not a substitute for a
healthy diet and lifestyle. Also, it's important to consult with a doctor before making any changes to your diet
and hydration habits, especially if you have a medical condition.

2.2 Improve hydration

The claim that alkaline water can improve hydration is based on the idea that its higher pH level can reduce the
size of water clusters, making it easier for the body to absorb and utilize the water.

Some proponents argue that the smaller water clusters in alkaline water make it more hydrating than regular tap
water, and that it can help improve hydration in the body. However, there is limited scientific evidence to
support this claim.

It's important to note that the body's ability to absorb and utilize water is not solely dependent on the pH level of
the water. Factors such as temperature, mineral content, and electrolyte balance also play a role in hydration.

Additionally, it's important to remember that drinking water, regardless of its pH level, is the most important
factor in staying hydrated. It's important to drink enough water each day to maintain proper hydration and to
listen to your body's signals of thirst.

It's always a good idea to consult with a doctor before making any changes to your diet and hydration habits,
especially if you have a medical condition.
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2.3 Act as an antioxidant

The claim that alkaline water can act as an antioxidant is based on the idea that it can neutralize free radicals in
the body. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the
development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants are compounds that can
neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.

Some proponents of alkaline water argue that it can act as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals in the
body, which can help slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, there is
limited scientific evidence to support this claim.

It's important to note that while alkaline water may have some potential antioxidant properties, it's not a
substitute for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other antioxidant-rich foods. Additionally, there are many
other sources of antioxidants such as natural supplements, vitamins, minerals, and herbs that can be added to the
diet.

It's always a good idea to consult with a doctor before making any changes to your diet and hydration habits,
especially if you have a medical condition.

2.4 Alkaline water is important for aquatic life

Alkaline water is important for aquatic life because it helps to maintain a stable pH level in the water, which is
essential for the survival of many aquatic organisms. Alkalinity acts as a buffer, helping to neutralize acids and
prevent drastic changes in pH. When the pH level in water drops too low, it can be harmful or even deadly to
many aquatic organisms, including fish, plants, and other aquatic life.

Moreover, Alkaline water can also provide other benefits to aquatic life. For example, it can help to remove
heavy metals and other contaminants from the water, which can be harmful to aquatic organisms if they build
up to toxic levels. Additionally, many aquatic organisms, such as fish and plants, require a specific range of pH
and alkalinity levels to survive. Maintaining the proper alkalinity levels in water can help to ensure that these
organisms thrive and that the ecosystem as a whole remains healthy.

In summary, water alkalinity is important for aquatic life because it helps to maintain a stable pH level, buffer
against changes in pH, remove heavy metals and other contaminants, and maintain the overall balance of
aquatic ecosystems. Proper levels of alkalinity are essential for the survival and well-being of aquatic organisms
and the ecosystem as a whole.

2.5 Benefits of Alkaline Water and Scientific Evidence

The potential benefits of alkaline water, such as neutralizing acidity in the body, improving hydration,
supporting detoxification, and acting as an antioxidant, are based on the idea that its higher pH level can help
balance the body's pH levels and promote overall health. However, there is limited scientific evidence to
support these claims.
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A number of studies have been conducted to investigate the potential health benefits of alkaline water, but the
majority of these studies are small, observational, or in-vitro studies and more research is needed to confirm the
findings.

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health in 2016 found that alkaline water may
help reduce acid reflux symptoms. However, the study was small and more research is needed to confirm these
findings.

Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2016 found that
alkaline water may help improve hydration and reduce muscle damage in athletes. However, the study was
small and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

A systematic review published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics in 2019 found that there is
limited evidence to support the claims that alkaline water can neutralize acidity in the body and improve
hydration.

It's important to note that while alkaline water may have some potential benefits, it's not a substitute for a
healthy diet and lifestyle. Also, it's important to consult with a doctor before making any changes to your diet
and hydration habits, especially if you have a medical condition.
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POTENTIAL RISK OF ALKALINE WATER

3.1. Disruption of acid-base balance

The disruption of acid-base balance, also known as acid-base imbalance, can occur when the levels of acidity
(measured by pH) or alkalinity in the body become too high or too low. The normal pH range for the human
body is between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline.

When the body's acid-base balance is disrupted, it can lead to a number of symptoms, such as:

 Headaches
 Fatigue
 Muscles weakness
 Confusion
 Shortness of breath
 Rapid breathing
 Rapid heartbeat

Consuming water with a pH level that is too high can disrupt the balance of acidity in the body, which can lead
to acid-base imbalance. This can cause a range of health problems, such as headaches, fatigue, and muscle
weakness. In severe cases, acid-base imbalances can also lead to serious complications such as coma and death.

It is important to note that drinking water with a pH level that is too low can also cause acid-base imbalance,
although this is less common.

3.2. Digestive problems

Drinking water with a high pH level can potentially cause digestive problems. The stomach is designed to
maintain a highly acidic environment in order to break down food and kill harmful bacteria. When the stomach
is exposed to an alkaline substance such as alkaline water, it can disrupt this acidic environment and cause
digestive problems.

Some of the digestive problems that can be caused by alkaline water include:

 Nausea: Consuming water with a high pH level can cause nausea and stomach discomfort.
 Vomiting: In some cases, drinking alkaline water can cause the stomach to expel its contents, leading to
vomiting.
 Stomach pain: The disruption of the stomach's acid-base balance can cause stomach pain and
discomfort.
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 Gastrointestinal problems: Long-term consumption of alkaline water can cause chronic problems, such
as acid reflux, and can damage the stomach's lining, leading to ulcers and other gastrointestinal
problems.

3.3. Kidney problems

High levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium in alkaline water can potentially lead to kidney
problems. Consuming large amounts of these minerals can cause the formation of kidney stones, which are
hard, painful deposits that can block the urinary tract. These stones can cause severe pain, nausea and vomiting,
and can lead to infection or kidney damage if not treated.

Kidney stones can form when the urine becomes too concentrated with calcium and magnesium. Alkaline water
can increase the level of these minerals in the urine, which can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.

Another potential risk of consuming alkaline water with high levels of minerals is that it can lead to
hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood. Hypercalcemia can cause
muscle weakness, fatigue, and kidney damage.

3.4. Skeletal problems

osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.

The theory behind this concern is that alkaline water can increase the pH of the blood and the urine, which can
cause the bones to release calcium. This can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increase in the risk of
osteoporosis.

However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims, and more
research is needed to confirm the potential effects of alkaline water on bone health. Furthermore, it has been
found that most of the studies that suggest a correlation between alkaline water and osteoporosis are based on
animal models and observational studies, which cannot establish causality.

.
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CONCLUTION

In conclusion, water alkalinity is a vital aspect of water quality that plays a crucial role in maintaining the
stability and health of aquatic systems, as well as the overall well-being of the environment. It is a measure of
the ability of water to neutralize acids and helps to buffer against changes in pH, remove heavy metals and other
contaminants, and maintain the balance of aquatic ecosystems. The proper levels of alkalinity are essential for
the survival of aquatic organisms and for ensuring that the water is safe for human consumption and other uses.
Alkalinity is also important for protecting infrastructure and maintaining the overall health of the environment.

Furthermore, it is important to note that water alkalinity is not only crucial for the preservation of aquatic life
and ecosystems, but also for the sustainability of human life as well. Adequate access to clean and safe water is
a fundamental human right and necessary for the survival and well-being of communities. Therefore,
monitoring and maintaining alkalinity levels in both natural and artificial water bodies is crucial for ensuring the
proper functioning of these systems and preserving their long-term sustainability.

Overall, water alkalinity plays a critical role in maintaining the overall health and well-being of the environment
and the communities that depend on it. It is vital that we continue to monitor and understand the importance of
alkalinity in water to ensure the long-term sustainability of these vital resources.
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REFRENCE

 Snoeyink, V.L. and D. Jenkins. Water Chemistry, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1980.
 Sawyer, C.N. and P.L. McCarty. Chemistry for Environmental Engineering (3rd Ed), McGraw-Hill Book Company,
New York, 1978
 Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (18th Ed.), American Water Works
Association, 1992
 https://extension.usu.edu/
 https://www.healthline.com/
 https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school
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Declaration by Author(s)

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