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Multiple Choice
In the context of acids and bases, what happens to the pH of a solution when equal concentrations of a strong acid and a strong base are mixed?
A
The pH becomes basic, above 7.
B
The pH remains unchanged.
C
The pH becomes acidic, below 7.
D
The pH becomes neutral, around 7.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of neutralization: When a strong acid and a strong base are mixed in equal concentrations, they undergo a neutralization reaction. This means that the hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid react with the hydroxide ions (OH⁻) from the base to form water (H₂O).
Consider the properties of strong acids and bases: Strong acids completely dissociate in water to release H⁺ ions, and strong bases completely dissociate to release OH⁻ ions. This complete dissociation is crucial for the neutralization process.
Write the chemical equation for the neutralization reaction: For example, if hydrochloric acid (HCl) is mixed with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the reaction is:
Analyze the result of the reaction: The products of the neutralization reaction are water and a salt (in this case, sodium chloride, NaCl). Water is neutral with a pH of 7, and the salt does not affect the pH significantly in this context.
Conclude the effect on pH: Since the strong acid and strong base neutralize each other, the resulting solution is neutral, with a pH around 7. This is why the correct answer is that the pH becomes neutral, around 7.