Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Adding a base tends to __________ of a solution.
A
lower the hydrogen ion concentration and lower the pH
B
increase the hydrogen ion concentration and lower the pH
C
increase the hydrogen ion concentration and increase the pH
D
lower the hydrogen ion concentration and increase the pH
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of pH: pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution. A lower pH indicates a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, while a higher pH indicates a lower concentration.
Recognize the role of a base: A base is a substance that can accept hydrogen ions (H+) or donate hydroxide ions (OH-), which reduces the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.
Analyze the effect of adding a base: When a base is added to a solution, it tends to decrease the hydrogen ion concentration because it either accepts H+ ions or increases OH- ions, which combine with H+ to form water.
Relate the change in hydrogen ion concentration to pH: As the hydrogen ion concentration decreases, the pH of the solution increases, because pH is inversely related to the concentration of hydrogen ions.
Conclude the effect of adding a base: Therefore, adding a base to a solution lowers the hydrogen ion concentration and increases the pH, which aligns with the correct answer provided.