Question

Explain what happens to the concentration of hydroxyl (OH-) ions as solutions become less basic.

a) Increases
b) Decreases
c) Remains constant
d) Depends on temperature and pressure

Answer 1

The concentration of hydroxyl (OH-) ions decreases as solutions become less basic.

Step-by-step explanation:

The concentration of hydroxyl (OH-) ions decreases as solutions become less basic. In a basic solution, a base dissolves in water and dissociates, adding more OH- ions to the solution. As a result, the concentration of OH- ions increases. However, as the solution becomes less basic, the concentration of OH- ions decreases, and the concentration of H+ ions increases.

This change in concentration of OH- and H+ ions affects the pH of the solution. As the OH- concentration decreases and the H+ concentration increases, the solution becomes more acidic. Therefore, the correct answer is b) Decreases.