When water is added to a basic solution, the number of hydroxide ions per unit volume decreases. What will be the effect on pH?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: pH will decrease towards 7
For a basic solution, dilution lowers the hydroxide-ion concentration and reduces its basic strength. Because the ionic product of water relates hydrogen and hydroxide ions, the pH moves downward toward 7 as the solution is diluted, though it generally remains above 7 unless sufficient dilution or other conditions make it neutral. Thus option B is correct. Dilution cannot make the pH exceed 14, become zero, or immediately produce an acidic solution.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
pH will decrease towards 7
Why is this the correct answer?
For a basic solution, dilution lowers the hydroxide-ion concentration and reduces its basic strength. Because the ionic product of water relates hydrogen and hydroxide ions, the pH moves downward toward 7 as the solution is diluted, though it generally remains above 7 unless sufficient dilution or other conditions make it neutral. Thus option B is correct. Dilution cannot make the pH exceed 14, become zero, or immediately produce an acidic solution.
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.
Student feedback
Was this question useful?
👍 0 Helpful 👎 0 Not helpful
Yes 0% No 0%
0 responsesStudent Reviews
No published reviews yet.
