To combat these additional hydrogen ions, which would lower the pH if left alone, additional bicarbonate and carbonate need to be added to the water. They are able to handle additions of extra hydrogen ions. These rock types exist in Western Pennsylvania. Lime is also used as a soil amendment to rid acidity in cropland, gardens, and lawns. Space for information footer on pH Plants can also contribute to lowering alkalinity in a stream.
Plants utilize carbon dioxide in water during photosynthesis to produce oxygen.
Less carbon dioxide reduces the capability for the reaction between water and carbon dioxide to produce carbonic acid. Less carbonic acid means less dissociation to bicarbonate and less reaction with calcium carbonate. The reduced alkalinity of the stream leaves the stream more susceptible to sudden additions of hydrogen and resulting changes in pH. Human Impact Alkalinity is an important measure of a stream ability to absorb inputs of acid. Acid rain and acid mine drainage from coal mining causes a considerable drop in pH of stream water. A decrease in pH of a stream can disturb the natural equilibrium and destroy many habitats for aquatic life, especially for species intolerant of pH changes.