Question

Solution A is 100 times as acidic as solution B. What is the difference in pH values of solution A and solution B

Answer 1

The difference is 2 pH units.

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's give an arbitrary value to the H⁺ concentration of solution A, [H⁺]ₐ:

• [H⁺]ₐ = 0.001 M

If that's the case then the pH of solution A would be:

• pHₐ = -log(0.001) = 3

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The H⁺ concentration of solution B ( [H⁺]ₓ ) is 100 higher than that, so:

• [H⁺]ₓ = 0.001 * 100 = 0.1 M

And its pH:

• pHₓ = -log(0.1) = 1

So the difference in pH values is:

• pHₐ - pHₓ = 3 - 1 = 2