Multiple Choice
On the pH scale, a decrease in pH by 3 units implies what change in the hydronium ion concentration, ?
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17. Acid and Base Equilibrium
The pH Scale
Multiple Choice
On the pH scale, a solution with a pH of is best described as which of the following?
A
Strongly basic, with
B
Basic, with
C
Neutral, with
D
Acidic, with
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution and is defined as \(\mathrm{pH} = -\log[\mathrm{H}^+]\), where \([\mathrm{H}^+]\) is the concentration of hydrogen ions in moles per liter (M).
Given a pH of 5, use the definition to find the hydrogen ion concentration by rearranging the formula: \([\mathrm{H}^+] = 10^{-\mathrm{pH}}\).
Substitute the given pH value into the equation: \([\mathrm{H}^+] = 10^{-5}\) M, which tells us the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution.
Interpret the pH value: since pH 7 is neutral, values less than 7 indicate an acidic solution, and values greater than 7 indicate a basic solution.
Conclude that a solution with pH 5 is acidic, and its hydrogen ion concentration is \$10^{-5}$ M, matching the description of an acidic solution.
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