pH measurement is one of the most important and common tests in water chemistry. Almost every step in water supply and wastewater treatment (e.g., acid-base neutralization, water softening, sedimentation, coagulation, disinfection, and corrosion control) depends on pH. pH is used in the measurement of alkalinity and carbon dioxide and many other acid-base equilibria. At a given temperature, the intensity of the acidic or basic activity of a solution is indicated by pH, or hydrogen ion activity.

The factor affecting the corrosion and sedimentation of water is alkalinity. For example, the alkalinity of water used in steam boilers must be high enough to prevent corrosion of the boiler walls.