The concentration of the active ingredient is another critical factor to consider. The dosage form of a medication must contain the right amount of active ingredient to achieve the desired effect without causing toxicity. For example, the therapeutic window, which is the range of doses that produces the desired effect without causing significant adverse effects, varies widely among different drugs. Therefore, precise dosing and formulation are vital in pharmaceutical development and clinical practice.
Maintaining proper pH levels is essential for optimal water quality. Chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) or lime (calcium hydroxide) are added to adjust pH levels to between 6.5 and 8.5—an ideal range for drinking water. Proper pH balance helps to enhance the effectiveness of disinfectants and reduce corrosion in pipes, which can lead to lead or copper leaching into the water supply.
pH adjustment is another critical aspect of sewage treatment, often requiring the use of chemicals like sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide. Maintaining an optimal pH level is crucial for the effectiveness of biological treatment processes, as most microorganisms thrive within a specific pH range. By adjusting the pH, operators can enhance microbial activity, ultimately improving the degradation of organic materials in the wastewater.