CO2 Chart question

977 Views 5 Replies 4 Participants Last post by bclee, Sep 9, 2004

IUnknown

Discussion Starter · Sep 7, 2004

I am using The Lamotte 4491 Alkalinity test kit to measure KH in my aquarium. I am using the results to measure the Co2 in the system using the following calculator and a pH probe,
http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plant_co2chart.htm
My problem is that I initially get a reading, and then the color changes as I let the sample sit (as if the Co2 is being gassed off, and my result changes). What I want to know is if I should use the initial reading to determine my Co2, or should I let the sample sit for an hour to measure my Co2?
Also, Chuck's webpage describes PO4 concentrations as a problem. I was wondering at what levels do they become a problem. I maintain 2ppm throughout the week.
Thanks,
Greg

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djlen

· #2 · Sep 7, 2004

As you are testing, the first drop that changes from the initial color to the other determines that kH, IME. This is also the case with regard to gH.
I would not wait for any other changes to take place.
P levels become a problem when they become out of balance with your content of K and N, causing an increase in algae. I don't think that there is a definitive number that you can look at because every tank is unique, and as such has different requirements for each element.

Len

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bclee

· #3 · Sep 8, 2004

IUnknown said:
I am using The Lamotte 4491 Alkalinity test kit to measure KH in my aquarium. I am using the results to measure the Co2 in the system using the following calculator and a pH probe,
http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plant_co2chart.htm
My problem is that I initially get a reading, and then the color changes as I let the sample sit (as if the Co2 is being gassed off, and my result changes). What I want to know is if I should use the initial reading to determine my Co2, or should I let the sample sit for an hour to measure my Co2?
Also, Chuck's webpage describes PO4 concentrations as a problem. I was wondering at what levels do they become a problem. I maintain 2ppm throughout the week.
Thanks,
Greg

You should use the initial pH reading because that is what you really interested in. The CO2 level that is in the water at the point of time.

IME, PO4 levels can vary widely without causing problems to a system where CO2, K and NO3 are well maintained. The levels in my tank varies from 0.5ppm to 30ppm at different stages (including a period where I made a boo-boo in dosing PO4) without causing problems.

BC

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Laith

· #4 · Sep 8, 2004

30ppm PO4? wow! what were your other parameters?

No negative symptoms?

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IUnknown

Discussion Starter · #5 · Sep 8, 2004

Hi Greg,

Thank you for using LaMotte analytical products. When performing the alkalinity (DKH) test, be sure to take the reading as soon as the sample changes from blue-green to a purple color. This will provide your true DKH reading which you can use with the CO2 calculator. Your observations are correct, the color will change as the sample sits and is exposed to ambient air (due to changes in pH). This reversion of color in the sample is typical of many titration tests, but should be ignored.

Regards,

Technical Service
LaMotte Company

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bclee

· #6 · Sep 9, 2004

Laith said:
30ppm PO4? wow! what were your other parameters?

No negative symptoms?

For about 1+ month I had 20-30ppm of PO4. During that period, my NO3 level was around 10-20ppm. I have kept my CO2 very high at 30-35ppm. I also dose quite a big amount of K. During that time, there was no algae problem.

If you wanted to know why I had so high PO4... I was over-enthusiastic in pluging in those NPK tabs which contain very high level of soluble PO4 in my substrate. :wink: It took me more than one month of weekly water change before I see the PO4 level easing off.

BC

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