Chapter 16.1, Problem 6RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The meaning of acidic, basic and neutral solution needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: $pH$ is a measure of hydrogen ion concentration, a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The pH scale generally varies from 0 to 14.

The equation for is given by,

  $pH=-\text{log[}{H}^{+}]$ where, $\text{[}{H}^{+}]=\text{ concentration of hydrogen ion}\text{.}$

Answer to Problem 6RQ

1. A $pH$ of 7 is neutral.
2. A $pH$ less than 7 is acidic.
3. A $pH$ greater than 7 is basic.

Explanation of Solution

Acidic and basic are two extreme ends that shows chemical property of substance. When an acid and a base are mixed in they can cancel out or neutralize each other. A neutral solution is the one which is neither acidic nor basic.

The $pH$ scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. 

Conclusion

1. A $pH$ of 7 is neutral.
2. A $pH$ less than 7 is acidic.
3. A $pH$ greater than 7 is basic.