

The most in demands along with their formulas are given as under: Rectangular Prism Shape: Rectangular Height Width Length. The calcium and magnesium hardness is the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions expressed as equivalent of calcium carbonate. But this aquarium dimension calculator uses different equations to calculate aquarium gallons needed to fill the box. This is not true for strong acids, however. As discussed previously, aquariums come in different shapes, sizes, and dimensions. The pH will change, and the speciation of the things contributing to alkalinity will change, but not the total alkalinity. However, for every proton that leaves the carbonic acid and reduces alkalinity, a new bicarbonate or carbonate ion is formed that adds to alkalinity, and the net change in total alkalinity is exactly zero. These protons can go on to reduce alkalinity by combining with something that is in the sample that provides alkalinity (carbonate, bicarbonate, borate, phosphate, etc). Well, the carbonic acid can release protons by reversing equations 1 and 2:

If carbonic acid is added to any aqueous sample with a measurable alkalinity, what can happen? Keeping an aquarium or pond is relaxing and fascinating, and API brand is here to support you in your fish keeping journey Whether you’re a seasoned fish keeper or a first-timer, you will love using our products to help you start or maintain your ideal aquarium or pond. This is simply incorrect.įorgetting the math for the moment, it is easy to see how this must be the case. Unfortunately, there is an article available on line, which claims otherwise, and encourages people to “lower alkalinity” by adding CO2 in the form of seltzer water.

He shows mathematically that the total alkalinity of a sample CANNOT be changed by adding or subtracting CO2. One of these facts is termed The Principle of Conservation of Alkalinity by Pankow (“Aquatic Chemistry Concepts”, 1991). Unfortunately, some of these have been misunderstood by some hobby authors. There are several facts about total alkalinity that follow directly from the definition.
