Re: [GSAS-Member] Nitrogen Cycle - a slow start?

["Seattle_Aquarist" <Seattle_Aquarist@comcast.net>]

Hi Michael,

A couple of months ago I found out something about the API Nitrate Test kits
that made me feel pretty foolish.  I had a problem because my nitrates
always read zero (0).  I even read zero when I put a few grains of KNO3 in
the test tube and tested.  

I contacted API customer service and asked "What gives?"  The bottom line
was I didn't read the instructions thoroughly.  Bottle #2 of the API Nitrate
Test Kit needs to be shaken "vigorously" for at least 30 seconds ( I now do
a minute) prior to adding the 10 drops or you will get a low reading.
Apparently the chemical in Bottle #2 crystallizes and settles easily and
needs to be shaken and mixed back into solution.

So I shook my Bottle #2 and re-tested.  The end result was I found that had
nitrates up the ying yang!  My lesson of the day; read the instructions Roy!

Are you using an API Nitrate Test Kit?  If so make sure you are shaking
Bottle #2 vigorously for at least 30 seconds before adding the drops.  Hope
this helps someone!

Roy     

_______________________________________________
GSAS-Member mailing list
GSAS-Member@thekrib.com
http://lists.thekrib.com/mailman/listinfo/gsas-member