Multiple Choice
Most human cells function best near physiological pH. What is the approximate pH for most human cells?
4
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
On the pH scale, what does pH actually measure in an aqueous solution?
A
The concentration of hydroxide ions,
B
The mass percent of acid present in the solution
C
The total concentration of all ions dissolved in the solution
D
The negative base-10 logarithm of the hydronium ion concentration, (equivalently, )
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that pH is a measure related to the acidity of an aqueous solution, specifically focusing on the concentration of hydronium ions (H₃O⁺).
Recall the definition of pH as the negative base-10 logarithm of the hydronium ion concentration, which can be written as: \(pH = -\log_{10} [H_3O^+]\).
Recognize that the hydronium ion concentration, \([H_3O^+]\), represents how many hydronium ions are present per unit volume in the solution, which directly affects the solution's acidity.
Note that pH does not measure hydroxide ion concentration, mass percent of acid, or total ion concentration, but specifically the hydronium ion concentration in a logarithmic scale.
Conclude that by calculating the pH using the formula, you obtain a convenient scale to express acidity, where lower pH values indicate higher acidity (more hydronium ions) and higher pH values indicate lower acidity.
Related Videos
Related Practice
