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Multiple Choice
The addition of an acid like HCl to an aqueous solution (pure water) would result in: a) An increase in pH only. b) Both the release of H+ and an increase in pH. c) Both the release of H+ and a decrease in pH. d) The release of H+ into the solution only. e) A decrease in pH only.
A
An increase in pH only.
B
Both the release of H+ and an increase in pH.
C
Both the release of H+ and a decrease in pH.
D
The release of H+ into the solution only.
E
A decrease in pH only.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution. The formula for pH is: .
Recognize that adding an acid like HCl to water increases the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in the solution.
Recall that an increase in hydrogen ion concentration results in a decrease in pH, as pH is inversely related to [H+].
Identify that the release of H+ ions from HCl into the solution is the primary effect of adding an acid to water.
Conclude that the correct answer involves both the release of H+ ions and a decrease in pH, as these are the direct consequences of adding HCl to an aqueous solution.