Final answer:
The pH of a drain cleaner, like those containing sodium hydroxide, is usually very high, close to 14, indicating its strong alkaline nature suitable for dissolving organic clogs. The given example shows a drain cleaner with a pH of 12.6. Due to their caustic properties, handling them requires care and proper disposal to avoid environmental harm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pH of a drain cleaner determines its acidity or alkalinity. Drain cleaners often contain highly alkaline substances like sodium hydroxide or lye (NaOH) for their ability to break down organic clogs resulting from grease, hair, and food particles. Common solid drain cleaners have a very high pH, often close to the maximum of 14, which indicates their strong caustic nature. However, the precise pH of a drain cleaner can differ based on its formulation and concentration.
Example of pH Calculation
Using a given pH value as an example, if a drain cleaner has a concentration leading to a pH of 12.6, it is highly alkaline. The scale for pH ranges from 0 to 14, with low values being acidic and high values being alkaline. Most liquid drain cleaners have a pH of 14, showcasing their caustic nature and effectiveness at dissolving organic clogs.
When dealing with such chemicals, it is imperative to handle them with caution to avoid chemical burns or other injuries. Due to their high pH, these cleaners are very caustic and can also pose environmental issues if not neutralized before disposal.