Suppose that water from a wetland area is sampled and found to have the given hydronium ion concentration. Determine whether the wetland is a rich fen, a poor fen, or a bog. See Example 3. 2.49*10^-7

Verified step by step guidance

1. <Step 1: Understand the problem. We need to determine the type of wetland based on the hydronium ion concentration, which is given as \(2.49 \times 10^{-7}\) M.>
2. <Step 2: Recall the pH formula. The pH of a solution is calculated using the formula \(\text{pH} = -\log[\text{H}_3\text{O}^+]\), where \([\text{H}_3\text{O}^+]\) is the hydronium ion concentration.>
3. <Step 3: Calculate the pH. Substitute the given hydronium ion concentration into the pH formula: \(\text{pH} = -\log(2.49 \times 10^{-7})\).>
4. <Step 4: Compare the pH value to typical pH ranges for wetlands. Rich fens typically have a pH between 5.5 and 7, poor fens have a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, and bogs have a pH less than 4.5.>
5. <Step 5: Determine the type of wetland. Based on the calculated pH, decide whether the wetland is a rich fen, poor fen, or bog by comparing it to the typical pH ranges.>

Key Concepts

Hydronium Ion Concentration

Hydronium ion concentration, often expressed in moles per liter (M), indicates the acidity of a solution. It is derived from the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in water, where higher concentrations correspond to lower pH values. Understanding this concept is crucial for determining the type of wetland, as different wetlands have distinct pH levels that influence their classification.

Wetland Types

Wetlands are classified into various types based on their hydrology, vegetation, and chemistry. Rich fens are nutrient-rich and alkaline, poor fens are nutrient-poor and slightly acidic, while bogs are highly acidic and nutrient-poor. Recognizing these classifications helps in interpreting the hydronium ion concentration and determining the wetland type based on its chemical characteristics.

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline), with 7 being neutral. The pH is inversely related to hydronium ion concentration; as the concentration increases, the pH decreases. This relationship is essential for assessing the wetland's environment and determining its classification based on the provided hydronium ion concentration.