If the amounts of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions in a solution are nearly balanced, what will its pH be like?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: About seven
The governing concept is neutrality in an aqueous solution. Hydrogen ions are associated with acidity, while hydroxide ions are associated with basicity. When their effects are nearly balanced, neither acidic nor basic character dominates, so the solution is approximately neutral. At ordinary conditions, a neutral aqueous solution has pH about 7; therefore option A is correct. pH 0 and pH 2 indicate acidity, while pH 14 indicates strong basicity rather than neutrality.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
About seven
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is neutrality in an aqueous solution. Hydrogen ions are associated with acidity, while hydroxide ions are associated with basicity. When their effects are nearly balanced, neither acidic nor basic character dominates, so the solution is approximately neutral. At ordinary conditions, a neutral aqueous solution has pH about 7; therefore option A is correct. pH 0 and pH 2 indicate acidity, while pH 14 indicates strong basicity rather than neutrality.
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.
