Determining the total content of the dissociated ions in water based on the number of equivalents delivers a more accurate calculation than the analysis based on ion balance (W-000.19.999 Calculating the Content of Sodium (and Potassium) Ions in Water Based on the Ion Balance), since errors in tallying the sum of the individual analyses for the total ion content can add up.
Water intended for use as an ingredient in the production of beer (brewing liquor) or other foods
Sodium ions (and potassium ions) are present in almost all natural waters. Their concentrations can range from a few mg/l up to several g/l. The concentration of potassium ions is usually low.
If a water sample is run through a strongly acidic cation exchanger, all of the cations are replaced with hydrogen ions, thus producing the corresponding free acids in equivalent quantities (total mineral acid value). Since the carbonates and bicarbonates are transformed into carbon dioxide and therefore escape determination, their content must be determined through titration with acid to a pH of 4.3 (m value).