Chapter 16, Problem 16.106QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The maximum concentration of ferric ion that is added to the ocean to promote the growth of phytoplankton for the given $\text{pH}$ of the ocean is to be calculated.

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

$\text{pH}=14-\left(-\log \left[{\text{OH}}^{-}\right]\right)$

The solubility product of ferric hydroxide is calculated by the formula,

$K_{\text{sp}}=\left[{\text{Fe}}^{3+}\right]\times {\left[{\text{OH}}^{-}\right]}^3$

To determine: The maximum concentration of ferric ion that is added to the ocean to promote the growth of phytoplankton.