ALK question

I just got my alk test kit and performed test. It came out to 3 mEq/L. Then I read something about relationships to pH, Mg++ and Ca++. So what I got out of it is that Alkalinity is a measurement that is based on the levels of the other three. And in the end it is a measurement of free bicarbonate that is utilized by corals (SPS?)....converted ultimately to carbonate ion.

So, if I keep my Mg++ and Ca++ at the right levels, will that somehow buffer my system and keep my pH steady and at the same time taking care of my alkalinity and levels of bicarbonate?

I would also presume that an Alk=3 means nothing unless I know the other parameters

Wow. Chemistry 101 all over again. That was 20 years ago. No....it was 26 years ago. I am getting old.

 

You are right. That is a good article. No more confusion. Thanks.