What should be the range for the exponent of [H+] in solutions that are characterized as acidic?

A. 0 to -0.07
B. 0 to 0.7
C. 0 to -7
D. 0 to 7

C. 0 to -7

Steve is the new bob

To determine the range for the exponent of [H+] in acidic solutions, we need to understand the concept of pH.

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution and is defined as the negative logarithm (base 10) of the hydrogen ion concentration, [H+]. The formula for calculating pH is:

pH = -log[H+]

In acidic solutions, the concentration of hydrogen ions [H+] is higher than in neutral or alkaline solutions. Thus, the pH value will be smaller (more acidic).

Since the pH scale is logarithmic, each unit represents a tenfold difference in [H+] concentration. This means that a solution with a pH of 1 is 10 times more acidic than a solution with a pH of 2.

Given the possible answer choices, we can eliminate options C and D, as they include negative values. The concentration of [H+] cannot be negative.

Now, to determine the correct range, let's consider the pH scale. The scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. pH values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity.

Option A suggests a range from 0 to -0.07, which is not possible as we cannot have negative pH values.

Option B suggests a range from 0 to 0.7. Since pH values below 7 indicate acidity, this range aligns with the acidic side of the pH scale. Therefore, the correct answer is:

B. 0 to 0.7

well, how is pH calculated?