Final answer:
The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution and ranges from 0 to 14. Acids lower pH by providing H+ ions, while bases raise pH by providing OH- ions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pH scale is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution of an acid or base. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic and 14 being the most basic. A pH value of 7 is considered neutral.
The pH scale is logarithmic, which means that a change of one unit on the scale represents a tenfold change in the concentration of hydrogen ions. For example, a solution with a pH of 4 is ten times more acidic than a solution with a pH of 5.
Acids provide hydrogen ions (H+) and lower pH, while bases provide hydroxide ions (OH-) and raise pH. Strong acids, like hydrochloric acid, readily donate H+ ions, while strong bases, like sodium hydroxide, readily donate OH- ions.