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Multiple Choice
If two nutrient solutions are maintained at the same pH, which of the following statements is correct?
A
They must contain the same types and concentrations of dissolved salts.
B
They have identical buffering capacities.
C
They have the same concentration of hydrogen ions ($[H^+]$).
D
They have the same total ionic strength.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of pH: pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions ($[H^+]$) in a solution. It is defined as $\text{pH} = -\log_{10}([H^+])$. Solutions with the same pH have the same $[H^+]$, regardless of other factors like dissolved salts or buffering capacity.
Clarify the role of dissolved salts: The types and concentrations of dissolved salts in a solution do not directly determine the pH. Salts may influence ionic strength or other properties, but pH is specifically tied to $[H^+]$. Therefore, solutions with the same pH do not necessarily have identical dissolved salts.
Explain buffering capacity: Buffering capacity refers to a solution's ability to resist changes in pH when acids or bases are added. Two solutions with the same pH may have different buffering capacities depending on the presence and concentration of buffer components (e.g., weak acids and their conjugate bases).
Discuss ionic strength: Ionic strength is a measure of the total concentration of ions in a solution, calculated as $I = \frac{1}{2} \sum c_i z_i^2$, where $c_i$ is the molar concentration of each ion and $z_i$ is its charge. Solutions with the same pH do not necessarily have the same ionic strength, as ionic strength depends on all ions present, not just $[H^+]$.
Conclude with the correct statement: The correct answer is that solutions with the same pH have the same concentration of hydrogen ions ($[H^+]$). This is the defining characteristic of pH and is independent of other solution properties like buffering capacity, dissolved salts, or ionic strength.