A basic solution has pH 12. What happens to its pH when water is added?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: pH will decrease towards 7
A pH of 12 indicates a basic solution because it is well above neutral pH 7. Adding water dilutes the base, lowering the concentration of hydroxide ions and reducing the solution’s basicity. As a result, the pH decreases toward 7, although sufficient dilution would be needed to approach neutrality and it would not instantly become acidic. Therefore option B is correct; the other choices reverse or exaggerate the effect of dilution.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
pH will decrease towards 7
Why is this the correct answer?
A pH of 12 indicates a basic solution because it is well above neutral pH 7. Adding water dilutes the base, lowering the concentration of hydroxide ions and reducing the solution’s basicity. As a result, the pH decreases toward 7, although sufficient dilution would be needed to approach neutrality and it would not instantly become acidic. Therefore option B is correct; the other choices reverse or exaggerate the effect of dilution.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
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