Carbonate

Carbonate alkalinity (CO₃^2-) exists when the phenolphthalein alkalinity is not zero but is less than the total alkalinity. Increased concentrations of this anion in water can lead to water hardness, scaling in pipes, and other problems.

Sources of carbonate in water

1- Dissolution of (CO₃^2-) rocks:

-Limestone or CaCO₃ is the most obvious source of carbonate in water. It gradually dissolves due to acid rain resulting from rock erosion.

-Soils resulting from rock erosion can also introduce this anion into water.

2- Human activities:

-Industrial pollution: Factories such as cement and fertilizer factories release significant amounts of this anion into water.

3- Dissolution of carbon dioxide gas:

– Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can dissolve in water and react with water to form carbonate.

– Air pollution and burning of fossil fuels can lead to an increase in the concentration of CO₃^2-.

Storage period

The sample can be stored for up to 14 days unless stored at a temperature of 4 degrees Celsius.

How to measure

It is measured with phenolphthalein reagent. We calculate CaCO₃ in mg/L.