Multiple Choice
The pH scale is a mathematical indicator of the:
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17. Acid and Base Equilibrium
The pH Scale
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
On the pH scale, what does pH measure in an aqueous solution?
A
The temperature of the solution in degrees Celsius.
B
The hydroxide ion concentration only, defined as .
C
The total concentration of dissolved salts (ionic strength) in the solution.
D
The hydrogen ion concentration, defined as (i.e., ).
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\textsuperscript{+}) present.
Recall the definition of pH, which is given by the formula: \(pH = -\log([H\textsuperscript{+}])\), where \([H\textsuperscript{+}]\) is the molar concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution.
Recognize that pH does not measure temperature, hydroxide ion concentration alone, or total dissolved salts; it specifically quantifies 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 the correct understanding of pH is that it measures the hydrogen ion concentration in an aqueous solution using the negative logarithm of that concentration.
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