Jamison wrote: I wonder if a Chemistry 101 class at an upcoming meeting might make some of us on the message board feel less like we're watching an episode of Mensa Jeopardy.

I thought we already did that.  Last fall right?  Jon Finch led the meeting.
Check out the presentation over there <-------------

Adam

I like Jamison's idea.  I would need extra caffeine beforehand, but a Chemistry 101 is a good idea.  We have had sort of a Lighting 101, and a few DIY 101 ideas. 

If we wanted, it could be a combo with a newbie lesson.  So it could be "common problems in a new tank" and "here's the chemical reason why you're having that problem." 

Or it could be: 

Here's what a calcium reactor can do for you.

Here's why Alkalinity is important.

Or it could be a straight-up, (tank up on Espresso everyone!) - lecture.

jfinch wrote:  pH is simple in the same way that eating a donut is simple.

Sorry Adam, but I agree with Jon. So do I eat my donut with a fork or with my hands? What's the difference in pH between powdered, glazed and jelly-filled? Should I dip it in coffee or chase it with milk? Hostess or Krispy Kreme?

Not to make light of either of your convictions. I'm sure you both make great points, but I don't feel like going to another four years of school to find out. I wonder if a Chemistry 101 class at an upcoming meeting might make some of us on the message board feel less like we're watching an episode of Mensa Jeopardy.

jfinch wrote: But I personally hate it when someone "dumbs down" an explanation or answer to a question.

Really?  Even people who are considered to be even a little bit on the nerdy side (you know, people like me) don't like big answers.  Like I recently asked Dana Riddle (or should I say had him prove to me) what happens with food and photosynthesis.  Basically I didn't/don't care how it makes changes I just want the straight up answer "does food help my corals grow?". 
Or when I buy light bulbs I ask people "okay I'm going to buy new halide bulbs, what do you guys think I should buy".  I don't really care about PAR ratings, I just want someone to point to a bulb and say "that is the best". 

Now I do understand your point, and do agree with it in some regards.  I'm that way with fish food, and with fish compatability.  Every time someone makes a statement I want to know everything about why they said that. 

I guess it just depends on my interest in the subject.

Adam

Riddle me this... You say the types of chemicals in your tank don't effect pH but a water change (which makes a change to those chemicals and ions) will fix a pH problem???

Jon- correct you caught me contradicting myself.  But I stand by that.  Here is why.  pH is a bunch of garbage if you ask me.  I say don't worry about.  None of those things are going to cause problems.  Like you said the only thing that could is CO2 or carbonates.  But it isn't like adding lugols solution is going to mess up your pH.
And if you do think you have a water quality problem, or if you do accidently dump in a bunch of kalkwasser or something like that.... well a water change is always a good idea.  It can't hurt, and it only helps.  So rather than explain to new hobbyists how pH works and the relationship of carbonates, I would rather just get people thinking "when in doubt to a water change".  I think that will serve them better.

Adam