acidifies

Acidifies is the present tense form of the verb acidify. It describes the process of making something more acidic, i.e., lowering its pH, typically by increasing hydrogen ion concentration. In aqueous solutions this usually means adding an acid, such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, or generating H+ through chemical reactions. Buffers resist acidification by consuming added hydrogen ions.

The effect of acidification depends on the system. In chemistry labs, acidifying a solution is a common step to adjust reaction conditions, prepare samples for analyses, or activate pH-sensitive reagents. In environmental contexts, acidification often refers to processes that lower the pH of soils or waters. Ocean acidification, driven by increasing dissolved atmospheric CO2 forming carbonic acid, reduces carbonate availability and can affect marine calcifiers. Soil acidification from acid rain or fertilizer inputs can alter nutrient availability and microbial activity.

In biology, organelles such as lysosomes are maintained at acidic pH ranges to optimize enzyme function; improper acidification can disrupt cellular processes. In foods, intentional acidification with lactic, acetic, or other acids preserves products and influences texture and flavor.

Measurement of acidity relies on pH, a scale that indicates hydrogen ion activity. Acidification is often discussed alongside buffering capacity and the use or avoidance of acidifying agents, depending on the desired chemistry or ecological outcome.