PPM Equation:
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The PPM (Parts Per Million) calculation converts Electrical Conductivity (EC) measurements to PPM values using a standard conversion factor. This is commonly used in water quality testing and hydroponics to measure dissolved solids concentration.
The calculator uses the simple equation:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion assumes that most dissolved solids in water contribute to electrical conductivity in a predictable way, with 500 being a commonly used conversion factor.
Details: PPM measurements are crucial for monitoring water quality, nutrient solutions in hydroponics, and overall dissolved solids content in various applications including agriculture, aquaculture, and water treatment.
Tips: Enter EC value in mS/cm. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically compute the corresponding PPM value.
Q1: Why use 500 as the conversion factor?
A: 500 is a standard conversion factor that works well for most general applications, though some specific industries may use different factors (640 or 700).
Q2: What is the relationship between EC and PPM?
A: EC measures electrical conductivity, which correlates with the concentration of dissolved ions. PPM directly measures the concentration of dissolved solids.
Q3: When should I measure EC vs PPM?
A: EC is more consistent across different meters, while PPM readings can vary based on conversion factors. Many professionals prefer using EC for accuracy.
Q4: Are there limitations to this conversion?
A: The conversion assumes a specific composition of dissolved solids. Different types of dissolved solids can affect conductivity differently.
Q5: What are typical PPM ranges for drinking water?
A: Drinking water typically ranges from 50-500 PPM. Higher values may indicate excessive mineral content or contamination.