One has two solutions: a strong acid and a weak acid that both have the same concentration and same volume. What is true of these two solutions?
The weak acid will produce more hydrogen ions.
Both solutions will have the same pH.
The strong acid will have a lower pH.
The strong acid will have a higher pH.
To determine which statement is true, we need to understand the properties of strong and weak acids and their effects on pH. Strong acids completely dissociate in water, meaning they release all of their hydrogen ions (H+) into the solution. On the other hand, weak acids only partially dissociate, releasing fewer hydrogen ions.
So, in this case, we have two solutions with the same concentration and volume. Let's consider the statements one by one:
1. The weak acid will produce more hydrogen ions: This statement is incorrect. Since both the strong and weak acids have the same concentration, the strong acid will produce more H+ ions because it completely dissociates, while the weak acid only partially dissociates.
2. Both solutions will have the same pH: This statement is incorrect. pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. Since the strong acid completely dissociates and produces more H+ ions, it will contribute to a lower pH compared to the weak acid.
3. The strong acid will have a lower pH: This statement is correct. As explained above, the strong acid will have a lower pH because it releases more H+ ions, making the solution more acidic.
4. The strong acid will have a higher pH: This statement is incorrect. Higher pH values indicate alkalinity, not acidity. Since the strong acid releases more H+ ions and increases the concentration of H+ ions in the solution, it will lead to a lower pH, indicating a more acidic solution.
Therefore, the correct statement is: The strong acid will have a lower pH.