What does a pH meter primarily measure?

A pH meter primarily measures the voltage difference between two electrodes immersed in a solution, which is then correlated to the hydrogen ion concentration in that solution. This voltage is indicative of the acidity or basicity of the solution, allowing the pH meter to provide an accurate pH value.

In essence, the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with lower values representing more acidic conditions and higher values indicating more basic conditions. The precise nature of this measurement involves the interaction of the electrodes with the ions in the solution, translating the electrical potential into a readable pH value.

Understanding this principle is important in various scientific applications, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science, where the pH of a solution can greatly influence chemical reactions, biological processes, and the overall health of ecosystems.