BIOS 251 Week 2 Lab; Measuring pH, Buffers, and Antacid Comparison

Week 2 Lab Instructions Chemistry Basics Activity Deliverable Points Part A Measuring pH using pH Strip 11 Part B Strong Acids as Buffers 9 Part C Comparing Antacids 10 685800176529Step 1: Read the Entire Lab Packet Step 1: Read the Entire Lab Packet 1.0– Read through the laboratory packet – SEE ATTACHED SHEETS 685800204497Step 2: Come to the Lab with Proper PPE Step 2: Come to the Lab with Proper PPE BACKGROUND: Acids and Bases The pH scale is a way to measure how acidic or basic a solution is. It tells us how many hydrogen ions (H+) are in the solution. The pH scale has a range from 0 to 14. Acids have a pH less than 7. They have more hydrogen ions. Examples include lemon juice and stomach acid. Bases have a pH greater than 7. They have fewer hydrogen ions. Examples include bleach and baking soda. A pH of 7 is neutral, like pure water. Buffers Buffers are special solutions that help keep the pH stable. They resist changes in pH when small amounts of acids or bases are added. For example, phosphate buffers are used in contact lens solutions to match the natural pH of the eye, which helps prevent irritation. Solutions A solution is made up of two parts: the solute and the solvent. The solute is the smaller part that gets dissolved. For example, salt in saltwater. The solvent is the larger part that does the dissolving. For example, water in saltwater. In a solution, the solute and solvent mix completely and do not separate when left standing. 297815028520Week 2 Lab Instructions Week 2 Lab Instructions BIOS251Page 1 of 8 Importance of pH in the Human Body Understanding pH is very important for nursing students because the pH level in different parts of the body affects how the body functions. Here are some key points: Blood pH: The normal pH range for blood is 7.35 to 7.45. If the blood pH goes outside this range, it can be dangerous. For example, if the blood becomes too acidic (a condition called acidosis) or too basic (a condition called alkalosis), it can affect how organs work and can be life-threatening. Stomach pH: The stomach has a very acidic pH, around 1.5 to 3.5. This acidity helps break down food and kill harmful bacteria. However, if the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, it can cause heartburn. Urine pH: The pH of urine can vary from 4.5 to 8.0. It helps the body get rid of excess acids or bases. By measuring urine pH, healthcare providers can get clues about a person's health, such as their kidney function or the presence of certain diseases. Skin pH: The skin has a slightly acidic pH, around 4.5 to 5.5. This acidity helps protect the skin from harmful bacteria and fungi. By understanding pH, nursing students can better understand how the body maintains balance and how different treatments can help restore this balance when it is disrupted. PURPOSE: In