A solution is acidic but very dilute. Around what pH can it be?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Slightly below 7
The pH scale describes hydrogen-ion concentration: pH = −log[H⁺]. An acidic solution has a hydrogen-ion concentration greater than that of neutral water and therefore has pH below 7 at ordinary conditions. If the acid is very dilute, its hydrogen-ion concentration is only slightly greater than neutral, so its pH may be just below 7, such as 6 or 6.5. It is not necessarily 0.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Slightly below 7
Why is this the correct answer?
The pH scale describes hydrogen-ion concentration: pH = −log[H⁺]. An acidic solution has a hydrogen-ion concentration greater than that of neutral water and therefore has pH below 7 at ordinary conditions. If the acid is very dilute, its hydrogen-ion concentration is only slightly greater than neutral, so its pH may be just below 7, such as 6 or 6.5. It is not necessarily 0.
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.
