Chapter 18, Problem 59A

Explain the meaning of the relative sizes of the two shaded areas to the right of the dark vertical line in Figure 18.28.

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The given shaded area is to be interpreted and meaning of relative sizes is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The figure is representing the hydrogen ion and hydroxyl ion concentrations according to which nature of solution is to predict as:

$If\left[H^{+}\right]=\left[O{H}^{-}\right]$, the solution is neutral.

$If\left[H^{+}\right]<\left[O{H}^{-}\right]$, the solution is basic.

$If\left[H^{+}\right]>\left[O{H}^{-}\right]$, the solution is acidic.

Answer to Problem 59A

The solution is basic having more concentration of hydroxyl ion than hydrogen ions.

Explanation of Solution

On the right of vertical line, $\left[H^{+}\right]<\left[O{H}^{-}\right]$

Therefore, the given solution is basic in nature.

Conclusion

The solution is basic because it have more concentration of hydroxyl ion than hydrogen ions.