Which of the following is true about an acidic solution?
a. it's pH is below 7
b. its hydrogen ion concentration is low
c. it is neutral
d. it can act as a buffer
https://www.britannica.com/science/pH
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The correct answer is a. An acidic solution often has a pH below 7. To understand why, let me explain the concept of pH and how it is related to acidity.
pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity (basicity) of a solution. It is a numerical scale ranging from 0 to 14, where 7 is considered neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity, while values above 7 indicate alkalinity.
To determine the pH of a solution, you need to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in the solution. In general, acidic solutions have a higher concentration of hydrogen ions compared to alkaline or neutral solutions.
Now, let's refer back to the options provided.
Option b states that the hydrogen ion concentration is low in an acidic solution, which is incorrect. Acidity is actually associated with a high concentration of hydrogen ions.
Option c mentions that an acidic solution is neutral, which is incorrect. Acidic solutions are on the opposite end of the pH scale from neutral solutions.
Lastly, option d suggests that an acidic solution can act as a buffer. While buffers can help maintain the pH of a solution, this statement does not capture a defining characteristic of an acidic solution.
Therefore, the correct answer is a. An acidic solution has a pH below 7.