'''Alkalinity''' is a measure of the
acid netralizing capacity of a
solution.
This netralizing capacity is equal to the stoichiometric sum of the
bases in solution. In the natural environment carbonate alkalinty tends to make up most of the total alkalinity due to the common occurrence and dissolution of
carbonate rocks and presence of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Other common natural components that make up alkalinity include
borate,
hydroxide,
phosphate,
silicate,
nitrate, and sulphide. Solutions produced in a labratory may contain a virtual limitless number of bases that contribute to alkalinity.
Category:Acid-bases