Why is a mouth pH below 5.5 harmful in relation to tooth decay?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Acid weakens tooth enamel
A pH below 5.5 indicates that the mouth is sufficiently acidic to attack the mineral structure of tooth enamel. Acids can dissolve or weaken enamel, the hard protective outer covering of a tooth. Once enamel is damaged, decay can progress more easily. Therefore option A is correct. The distractors incorrectly assign the effect to a base, salt, or water and do not describe acid erosion of enamel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Acid weakens tooth enamel
Why is this the correct answer?
A pH below 5.5 indicates that the mouth is sufficiently acidic to attack the mineral structure of tooth enamel. Acids can dissolve or weaken enamel, the hard protective outer covering of a tooth. Once enamel is damaged, decay can progress more easily. Therefore option A is correct. The distractors incorrectly assign the effect to a base, salt, or water and do not describe acid erosion of enamel.
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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