Acidic water is a growing problem in the United States. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that one in every four streams in the country is too acidic for aquatic life. The problem is caused by a variety of human activities, including mining, burning fossil fuels, and manufacturing. Acidic water can also be naturally occurring.
The effects of acidic water on the environment are well-documented. Aquatic life is particularly vulnerable, as the acidity can break down the protective shells of many creatures. This can lead to a decrease in the population of fish, amphibians, and other animals. Acidic water can also corrode infrastructure, including bridges and buildings.
The human health effects of acidic water are less clear. Some studies have linked acidity to a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal problems.
Acidic water is a serious problem with far-reaching consequences. It is important to take steps to reduce its impact, both on the environment and on human health.
Also, read our blog post about How To Arsenic From Water
Causes of acidic water
There are many potential causes of acidic water, including natural sources like rainwater and groundwater, as well as man-made sources like industrial waste. Acidic water can also be caused by chemicals leaching into the water supply from pipes or storage tanks.
The most common cause of acidic water is the presence of dissolved carbon dioxide in the water. This can come from a variety of sources, including decomposing organic matter, car exhaust, and even your own breath. When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, which can lower the water's pH.
Another potential cause of acidic water is the presence of sulfuric acid. This is most commonly found in areas with high concentrations of industrial activity, as sulfuric acid is a byproduct of many manufacturing processes. If left unchecked, sulfuric acid can seriously damage water infrastructure and cause harm to aquatic life.
Finally, water can become acidic as a result of chemical spills or other contamination. This is often seen in agricultural areas, where fertilizers and other chemicals can leach into groundwater. Acidic water can also be caused by sewage overflows or treatment plants that are not operating properly.
How To Deal With Acidic Water
Acidic water is not a new problem, but it is one that is becoming more and more common as our water sources become more and more polluted. Acidic water can cause a number of problems, including skin irritation, hair loss, and damage to plumbing fixtures.
The best way to deal with acidic water is to avoid it altogether. However, if you are already dealing with it, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the effects.
One way to deal with acidic water is to use a water filter. There are a number of different types of water filters on the market, but make sure to choose one that is specifically designed to remove acidic contaminants.
Another way to deal with acidic water is to add an alkaline substance to it. This can be done by adding baking soda to your water. This will not only neutralize the acidity, but it will also add a bit of sodium to the water, which can be beneficial for some people.
Finally, you can also contact your local water treatment plant and ask them what they recommend for dealing with acidic water.
No matter what method you choose, the important thing is to take action to correct the problem.
Health Effects of Drinking Acidic Water
When it comes to your health, the water you drink matters. And while most people focus on the contaminants that can be found in water, the acidity of water is often overlooked. But the truth is, the acidity of your water can have a significant impact on your health.
The human body is designed to function within a very specific pH range. This range is between 7.35 and 7.45. When the pH of your blood falls outside of this range, it can lead to serious health problems.
Drinking acidic water can lower the pH of your blood, which can lead to a number of health problems, including:
1. Digestive Issues
The human digestive system is designed to function within a very specific pH range. When the pH of your digestive system is too low, it can lead to a number of problems, including indigestion, heartburn, and nausea.
2. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are small & hard deposits that form in kidneys. They are usually made of calcium, and they can be extremely painful. Drinking acidic water can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
3. Tooth Decay
The acidity of your mouth is one of the biggest risk factors for tooth decay. When the pH of your mouth falls below 5.5, it starts to break down the enamel of your teeth. This can lead to cavities and tooth decay.
4. Osteoporosis
It is a condition that causes your bones to become weak and brittle. Drinking acidic water can leach calcium from your bones, which can lead to osteoporosis.
5. Acidosis
Acidosis is a condition that occurs when the pH of your blood falls below 7.35. This can lead to a number of health problems, including respiratory problems, fatigue, and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acidic Water Safe to Drink?
A: While there are some risks to consider, acidic water is generally safe to drink in moderation. If you are concerned about the acidity of your water, you can test it with a pH test strip.
Q: How can acidic water be treated?
A: Acidic water can be treated by a number of methods, including reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and alkalization.
Final Words
Acidic water is water that has a lower pH level than 7.0. This means that it is more acidic than neutral water, and can potentially cause health problems if consumed over a long period of time. There are a few ways to avoid drinking acidic water, such as checking the pH level of your water before you drink it, or installing a water filtration system in your home.