This Chemistry Thing

[burgerchow]

Originally Posted by Enigma

It is very important to me that I figure out how this chemistry thing works: whether dosing is required or not.

On one hand, I've got people telling me that I don't need to dose anything and that water changes are sufficient. On the other hand, I've got people predicting an apocalypse in my tank if I don't.

As I don't even have a cursory understanding of the subject matter it is very difficult for me to sift through what I'm being advised.

What is most noteworthy for me is that they guy I'd be buying the dosing system from is advising me not to. But, with the apocalyptic predictions that have been implanted in my head running around in there . . . well . . . I just really need to get a grip on the chemistry to be able to decide for myself what approach I need to take.

ok, there's basically cheap salt like instant ocean $ 30-$40 for 160 gal pail, that has the bare minimum of trace elements and calc and mag, so you will have to add more via dosing

The better salt like DD H20 or Zeovit Reefer's Best at double the price that contain all the necessary trace elements and additives. Your choice.

I personally use DD H20 and don't really dose anymore. Just a little A/B mix by 2 Little Fishies when I remember to do it. But you've got to do the water changes regimentally if you don't dose.

[fishytime]

shouldnt be an apocalypse if you dont dose.....I have a 110g display that is fairly SPS rich and I havnt dossed or even tested a thing in two years......just regular water changes with H2Ocean.......that being said, Im not getting huge growth out of my SPS, but colors are good and thats all that really matters to me....

[vanreefer]

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/for...c&daysprune=-1

Home grown help!

[Enigma]

Originally Posted by vanreefer

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/for...c&daysprune=-1

Home grown help!

Honestly, I don't understand an awful lot of the stuff in there. I'm not a total idiot (I'm a senior geomatics technologist who works in oil&gas) . . . But I sure do a good impersonation of one when trying to muddle my way through the more advanced chemistry stuff. I think most of this is pretty advanced.

I'm a numbers geek. I did develop an algebraic equation to help me adjust a single parameter through water changes.

Edit: Equation



Proof:



It seems to work.

[Aquattro]

Uh, you might be over thinking the whole thing

[Enigma]

Originally Posted by Aquattro

Uh, you might be over thinking the whole thing

I was feeling overwhelmed by some of the advice I was getting. It gave me a sence of control, and boosted my confidence in my approach (not dosing).

Oh, and sometimes I just really enjoy working through a mathematical problem.

I also enjoy macramé and Scrabble. Life is never dull over here!

(Just kidding . . . I hate Scrabble)

[whatcaneyedo]

If the specific articles don't tickle your fancy maybe invest in a good book to summarize everything for you. The Reef Aquarium Vol 3: Science, Art and Technology by Delbeek and Sprung isn't as advanced as the Randy articles but it does contain all of the basics and need-to-know information for a regular tank without being too brief. Once you've read a good all inclusive book or two, the articles are great for providing even more detail on specific topics if you so desire it.

Most of us aren't Chemistry Majors either. I'm an apprentice Carpenter with a BComm. But I do enjoy and know how to read and thats all you need.

[Enigma]

Originally Posted by whatcaneyedo

If the specific articles don't tickle your fancy maybe invest in a good book to summarize everything for you. The Reef Aquarium Vol 3: Science, Art and Technology by Delbeek and Sprung isn't as advanced as the Randy articles but it does contain all of the basics and need-to-know information for a regular tank without being too brief. Once you've read a good all inclusive book or two, the articles are great for providing even more detail on specific topics if you so desire it.

Most of us aren't Chemistry Majors either. I'm an apprentice Carpenter with a BComm. But I do enjoy and know how to read and thats all you need.

Thanks I'll check out the book. I'm reading a lot of Randy's work, but I do find that there are pieces of the puzzle that I'm still missing. It just hasn't "clicked" yet.