Chapter 15, Problem 23E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The $\text{pH}$ value of each given acid solution is to be calculated. The given statement that the “ $\text{pH}$ value of an acid solution should carry as many digits to the right of the decimal place as the number of significant figures in the concentration of the solution" is to be explained.

Concept introduction: The $\text{pH}$ value of acid solution is calculated by the formula,

$\text{pH}=-\log \left[{\text{H}}_{\text{3}}{\text{O}}^{+}\right]$

In a logarithm, the digits to the right of the decimal place are considered as the significant figures.

The $\text{pH}$ is a log value, so the digits before the decimal point is not count as significant figure and the digits to the right of the decimal place of $\text{pH}$ are considered as significant figures.

To determine: The $\text{pH}$ value of each given acid solution. The explanation for the statement that “ $\text{pH}$ of an acid solution should carry as many digits to the right of the decimal place as the number of significant figures in the concentration of the solution”.