Solution X has a pH of 9.0, and solution Y has a pH of 7.0. (10.6) a. Which solution is more acidic?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, where lower pH values indicate higher acidity.
2. Recall that the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are basic (alkaline).
3. Compare the pH values of the two solutions: Solution X has a pH of 9.0, and Solution Y has a pH of 7.0.
4. Recognize that a pH of 7.0 is neutral, while a pH of 9.0 is basic.
5. Conclude that Solution Y, with a pH of 7.0, is more acidic than Solution X, which is basic.

Key Concepts

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity. Thus, the lower the pH value, the more acidic the solution.

Acidity

Acidity refers to the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. Solutions with higher concentrations of H+ ions have lower pH values and are therefore more acidic. Understanding acidity is crucial for comparing the pH levels of different solutions.

Comparative Analysis of pH

Comparative analysis of pH involves evaluating the pH values of different solutions to determine their relative acidity or alkalinity. In this case, by comparing the pH of solution X (9.0) and solution Y (7.0), one can conclude which solution is more acidic based on their respective pH values.