Chapter 21, Problem 9TE

What happens to the pH of water as you blow bubbles into it through a drinking straw?

To determine

The effect of blowing bubbles in water on its $\text{pH}$.

Answer to Problem 9TE

The $\text{pH}$ of the water decreases after blowing bubbles in it.

Explanation of Solution

When the bubbles are blown in the water using a drinking straw, the carbon dioxide from the human breath goes in the water. The non – metallic oxides are acidic in nature. The acidic carbon dioxide reacts with the water which in turn forms carbonic acid on reaction. As carbonic acid is weak acid which is makes the aerated solution acidic and hence the pH of the neutral water decreases. The acidic content present in the water increases the hydronium ion concentration which is reflected in the $\text{pH}$ value of the solution.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the pH of the water decreases after blowing bubbles in it.