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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 the nature of hydrochloric acid (HCl) as a strong acid, which dissociates completely in water to release hydrogen ions (H⁺).
Recognize that the release of H⁺ ions into the solution increases the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water.
Recall the pH scale, where a lower pH value indicates a higher concentration of H⁺ ions, meaning the solution becomes more acidic.
Consider the effect of increased H⁺ concentration on the pH: as H⁺ concentration increases, the pH decreases.
Conclude that the addition of HCl to pure water results in both the release of H⁺ ions and a decrease in pH, making the solution more acidic.