Negative Log
Definition
In chemistry, negative log often refers to calculating pH values by taking the negative logarithm base 10 (-log) of the molar concentration of H+ ions.
Analogy
Let’s say you’re trying to rank your favorite songs on your playlist based on their popularity but some songs have millions while others have thousands of streams. To make it easier to compare, you decide to use a logarithmic scale (like negative log). This way, the difference between 1,000 and 10,000 streams isn't as drastic.
Related terms
Logarithm: The power to which a base number must be raised to produce a given number.
pH: A measure of how acidic or basic water is. It's calculated as the negative log of the concentration of H+ ions in solution.
pOH: A measure of hydroxide ion (OH-) concentration. It's calculated as the negative log of OH- ion concentration.
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