What is the pH of a solution with a H₃O⁺ concentration of 1.81 x 10⁻⁸?

Understanding pH and H₃O⁺ Concentration

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is defined as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen-ion concentration, represented as H₃O⁺ in aqueous solutions. The lower the pH value, the higher the acidity of the solution, and vice versa.

Given that the H₃O⁺ concentration in the solution is 1.81 x 10⁻⁸, we can determine the pH of the solution using the formula pH = -log[H₃O⁺]. Applying this formula to the given concentration:

pH = -log(1.81 x 10⁻⁸)

Calculating this expression yields a pH value of approximately 7.74. Since this pH value is slightly greater than 7, which is the neutral pH value, the solution can be classified as slightly alkaline.

Therefore, the pH of a solution with a H₃O⁺ concentration of 1.81 x 10⁻⁸ is approximately 7.74, indicating a slightly alkaline nature of the solution.

For further information on pH and its significance in chemistry, you can explore more resources here.