I am, also, very new to water chemistry, but here is some info that will help you get started...
From this website...
http://pondplace.com/chemistryofapond-phammonianitratesetc.aspx"pH
Ideal: 7.5
Acceptable Range: 6.5 - 8.5
Phosphate
Ideal: 0
Acceptable Range: 0.0 - 0.5
Ammonia
Ideal: 0
Acceptable Range: 0.0 - 0.25
Nitrites
Ideal: 0
Acceptable Range: 0.0 - 0.25
Nitrates
Ideal: 0
Acceptable Range: 0.0 - 0.5
Salt/Salinity
Ideal: 0.1 - 0.25
Acceptable Range: 0.1 - 0.25"
I have also collected ALOT of water analysis info and have saved it on my Water Chem Log thread. See the very first post and enjoy...
http://forums.pondboss.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=39072&Number=508352#Post508352
