Question

For each of the scenarios, determine if the ionic strength of the solution would increase, decrease, or not change.

a. If a solution of HNO3 were added to a solution of KOH , the ionic strength of the KOH solution would:_________

1. Increase
2. Decrease
3. Not change

b. If a dilute solution of KOH were added to a solution of CaCl2 (Ca(OH)2 (s) is formed), the ionic strength would:
1. Increase
2. Decrease
3. Not change

Answer 1

Increase

Decrease

Explanation:While in solution, ionic substances produce ions. The ions in solution determine the conductivity of the solution.

The ionic strength of a solution shows the concentration of ions in a given solution. The more the number of ions in the solution, the greater the ionic strength of the solution and vice versa.

When HNO3 is added to a solution of KOH, the number of ions in the solution increases and so does the ionic strength of the solution.

When KOH is added to a solution of CaCl2 then Ca(OH)2 is formed. The formation of a solid precipitate decreases the concentration of ions in solution as well as the ionic strength of the solution.