No, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) does not bring the pH of a pool down. In fact, it does the opposite.

Baking soda raises the pH of a pool. It is an alkaline substance, meaning it increases the pH level.

Here's why:

* pH Scale: The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline.

* Pool pH: The ideal pH range for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6.

* Baking Soda's Effect: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an alkaline compound with a pH of around 8.3. When added to water, it increases the water's pH level, making it more alkaline.

To lower the pH of a pool, you need to use an acidic product, such as muriatic acid or pH minus.

Remember to always consult the product instructions and follow safety precautions when adding chemicals to your pool.