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Multiple Choice
In an experiment to test the acidity of various solutions, which solution would typically serve as the negative control?
A
Acetic acid
B
Sodium hydroxide
C
Distilled water
D
Hydrochloric acid
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a negative control: In scientific experiments, a negative control is a group or sample where no effect is expected. It helps to ensure that the experimental setup is working correctly and that any observed effects are due to the experimental variable.
Identify the role of each solution in terms of acidity: Acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide are all chemicals that will affect the acidity or basicity of a solution. Acetic acid and hydrochloric acid are acids, while sodium hydroxide is a base.
Consider the properties of distilled water: Distilled water is neutral, meaning it has a pH of around 7. It does not contain any acids or bases that would alter the acidity of a solution.
Determine which solution would not affect the acidity: Since distilled water is neutral, it serves as a negative control because it does not change the acidity of the solution being tested.
Conclude that distilled water is the appropriate negative control: In an experiment testing acidity, distilled water is used as the negative control to ensure that any changes in acidity are due to the solutions being tested and not other factors.