Water alkalinity is a measure of how well water can neutralize acids and bases, or resist changes in pH. It's also known as the buffering capacity of water.

 Water alkalinity is a measure of how well water can neutralize acids and bases, or resist changes in pH. It's also known as the buffering capacity of water. 

Alkalinity is important because it helps maintain stable pH levels in water bodies, which is essential for aquatic organisms. For example, a sudden change in pH can be harmful to fish. 

Here are some things to know about water alkalinity:

What it's made of: Alkalinity comes from chemicals in water, such as bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides. 

How it's measured: Alkalinity is measured by determining how much acid is needed to bring a water sample to a pH of 4.2. The result is reported in milligrams per liter of calcium carbonate (mg/L CaCO3). 

How it's affected: Factors that affect alkalinity include rocks and soils, salts, plant activities, and industrial wastewater discharges. 

How to test it: You can use a test strip to measure alkalinity. 

How to increase it: You can increase water's alkalinity by adding baking soda, lemon juice, or pH booster drops. 

What's considered alkaline: Water with a pH of 8 or higher is considered alkaline.