Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the pH of a solution, we can use the formula:
pH = -log[H3O+]
Given that the concentration of H3O+ ions is 1.7 x 10^-5 M, we can substitute this value into the formula:
pH = -log(1.7 x 10^-5)
Calculating the logarithm:
pH ≈ -log(1.7) + log(10^-5)
Using the logarithmic property log(a) + log(b) = log(ab):
pH ≈ -log(1.7) - 5
Using a calculator, we can find the value of -log(1.7) to be approximately 0.769.
Substituting this value into the equation:
pH ≈ -0.769 - 5
Finally, performing the subtraction:
pH ≈ -5.769
Therefore, the pH of the solution is approximately -5.769.