Alkalinity. It means the ability of the water to neutralize. Prevent the pH levels of the water from becoming too basic or acidic. Alkalinity is also defined as the ability of water to neutralize acids or accept protons. This represents the sum of the bases that can be titrated in a water sample. Since the alkalinity of surface waters is generally determined by the content of carbonates, bicarbonates and hydroxides, this is taken as an indicator of these ionic species. However, some weak acid salts such as borates, silicates, nitrates, and phosphates may also contribute to alkalinity if they are also present. These negative ions in solution are commonly associated or paired with positive ions of calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and other cations. Bicarbonate constitutes the chemical form with the greatest contribution to alkalinity. Said ionic species and hydroxide are particularly important when there is great photosynthetic activity of algae or when there are industrial discharges in a body of water.
