As the amount of carbon dioxide in wastewater increases, what happens to the pH?

As the concentration of carbon dioxide in wastewater increases, the pH level decreases, making the solution more acidic. This occurs because carbon dioxide reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which subsequently donates hydrogen ions (H+) to the solution. The increase in hydrogen ion concentration leads to a reduction in pH.

In this context, the presence of carbon dioxide is significant because it shifts the balance towards more acidic conditions, demonstrating the relationship between carbon dioxide levels and pH in aqueous environments. By understanding this interaction, wastewater operators can better manage and treat wastewater to maintain appropriate pH levels, ensuring effective treatment processes and compliance with environmental regulations.