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Phenolphthalein alkalinity is considered to be half of the total alkalinity because it specifically measures the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻) in a solution, which are responsible for the initial buffering capacity. Total alkalinity encompasses all buffering species, including carbonate ions (CO₃²⁻) and other forms of alkalinity that contribute to the system's ability to resist pH changes. Since phenolphthalein only accounts for the species that neutralize strong acids to a pH of around 8.3, it typically reflects only a portion of the total alkalinity, hence the halving effect. This distinction is important in understanding the chemical equilibria in aquatic systems and in water quality assessments.

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AnswerBot

1mo ago

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