The pH of the following acid solutions was measured using a pH meter - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 5
The pH of the following acid solutions was measured using a pH meter.
| Solution | Volume | Concentration |
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:The pH of the following acid solutions was measured using a pH meter - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the acids and their properties
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Answer
The acids listed are nitrous acid (HNO2), ethanoic acid (acetic acid, CH3COOH), hypobromous acid (HBrO), and hypochlorous acid (HClO). Each of these acids has different strengths and degrees of dissociation in water.
Step 2
Determine the strength of each acid
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Answer
Nitrous Acid (HNO2): A weak acid that partially dissociates in solution.
Ethanoic Acid (CH3COOH): Also a weak acid with limited dissociation.
Hypobromous Acid (HBrO): A weak acid with low dissociation strength.
Hypochlorous Acid (HClO): This is a weak acid but is stronger than the others mentioned here.
Step 3
Calculate the pH estimation based on concentration
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Answer
To determine which acid has the lowest pH, we note that lower pH corresponds to higher acidity. Given that all acids are in equal concentration (0.10 M), the one that is the strongest will create the lowest pH. In this case, hypochlorous acid is the strongest among those presented.
Step 4
Conclusion
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Answer
Therefore, the acid solution that will have the lowest pH is A. nitrous acid.
