Re: Can the pH level of water be Harmful to Humans

The most sensitive part of the body to acids and bases is probably the eye. I 
think you would find that dilute acetic acid solution (vinegar, pH 4.0) can be 
very painful. Do not experiment with this!  It takes very strong acids or bases 
(lye or ammonia or Draino) to harm skin. The stomach makes a strong acid 
solution (about pH 1.0) that helps to digest food. Harm to the environment in 
the form of acid rain causes indirect harm to humans. If you are wondering what 
range of pH would be harmful in drinking water, I suspect that pH's between 4.0 
and 10.0 could be tolerated, but I do not have specific information. You may 
want to get your science teacher to help you measure the pH of Coca-Cola. 

You could try calling a poison center in your area, but do not call their 
emergency number, please.

David Winsemius, MD. MPH