So, we have been setting up these microcosms for over a week now, as there have been pH problems (damn microbes and their preference for neutral!) We set them up again today, adding some sodium hydroxide (problems were on the acidic side). Some of the pHs then came out too high, so I called Cool Boss into the lab to discuss the next step. He looked at the pHs, went over to the base cabinet, and grabed a bottle of pelletized sodium hydroxide. The following conversation then took place:

Watergirl: (Cool boss), what are you doing?
CB: I'm going to adjust the pH.
WG: No, really, what are you doing?
CB: Those pHs are too high. I'm going to lower them.
WG: With sodium hydroxide?
CB: (puzzled look) Sulfuric Acid?
WG: That would be better.