What is the pH of Lemon?

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The pH of lemon juice typically ranges between 2 and 3, making it highly acidic. This acidity is primarily due to the presence of citric acid, which accounts for about 5% to 8% of the juice’s composition. Understanding the pH of lemon and its acidic nature is crucial for various applications, from culinary uses to potential health effects.

pH Range and Acidity

  • pH Range: The pH of lemon juice falls between 2 and 3, which is significantly acidic compared to pure water, which has a neutral pH of 7.
  • Acidity: The high concentration of citric acid, ascorbic acid, and malic acid contributes to the acidic nature of lemon juice.

Measuring pH

what is the ph of lemon

  • pH Paper: Using pH paper, the pH of lemon juice can be determined by comparing the color of the paper to a pH scale. For example, a pH of 3 corresponds to an orange color on the paper.
  • pH Meter: A pH meter can also be used to measure the pH of lemon juice, providing a more precise value. For instance, one measurement yielded a pH of 2.76.

Concentration of H3O+ and OH- Ions

  • pH 2.32: For a lemon juice solution with a pH of 2.32, the concentration of H3O+ ions can be calculated using the formula pH = -log[H3O+]. This would result in a concentration of approximately 0.048 M (moles per liter) of H3O+ ions. The concentration of OH- ions can be calculated using the formula [OH-] = 10^(-14)/[H3O+], which would be approximately 2.08 x 10^(-12) M.

Health Effects and Precautions

  • Oral Health: The acidity of lemon juice can be damaging to tooth enamel, so it is recommended to consume it sparingly and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing teeth.
  • Digestion and Alkalinity: Although lemon juice is acidic in its natural state, it becomes alkaline once metabolized, which can have health benefits such as boosting immunity and energy.
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Contaminants and Chemicals

  • Citric Acid: The primary acid responsible for the acidity of lemon juice, citric acid is also protective against browning and contributes to the tart taste.
  • Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Present in lemons, ascorbic acid is essential for immune function and tissue repair.
  • Malic Acid: Found in smaller amounts, malic acid may help with muscle disorders.

History and Uses

  • Traditional Medicine: Lemon juice has been used in traditional medicine for its detoxifying and health-promoting properties.
  • Culinary Uses: Lemon juice is commonly used in cooking and as a flavoring agent due to its acidity and nutritional value.

References

  1. ThoughtCo: “What Is the pH of Lemon Juice?” – Provides an overview of the pH of lemon juice and its acidity.
  2. YouTube: “pH of Lemon Juice: Is lemon juice acidic or alkaline?” – A video demonstrating the measurement of pH using pH paper and a pH meter.
  3. MedicineNet: “What Is the pH of Lemon Juice, and Is It Considered Acidic or Alkaline?” – Discusses the pH of lemon juice, its acidity, and health effects.