Multiple Choice
On the pH scale, a solution with a pH of is best described as which of the following?
2
views
17. Acid and Base Equilibrium
The pH Scale
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In aqueous solution, what does pH measure?
A
The total concentration of dissolved salts in the solution
B
The hydroxide ion concentration only, defined as
C
The temperature of the solution in degrees Celsius
D
The hydrogen ion concentration, defined as
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution, which relates to the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) in the solution.
Recall the definition of pH, which is given by the formula: \(pH = -\log_{10} [\mathrm{H}^+]\), where \([\mathrm{H}^+]\) is the molar concentration of hydrogen ions.
Recognize that pH does not measure the total concentration of dissolved salts, hydroxide ion concentration, or temperature; it specifically measures the hydrogen ion concentration.
Note that a lower pH value indicates a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (more acidic), while a higher pH value indicates a lower concentration of hydrogen ions (more basic or alkaline).
Summarize that pH is a logarithmic scale used to quantify the acidity of a solution based on the hydrogen ion concentration.
Related Videos
Related Practice
