QUESTION 131 (4 marks)
Solution X is 0.00500 mol L⁻¹ HCl with pH 2.30. Solution Y is 0.0500 mol L⁻¹ of a weak monoprotic acid with pH 3.30. Both are at the same temperature.
(a) Compare the initial acid concentrations and the hydrogen-ion concentrations of X and Y. [2 marks]
(b) Explain why X can have the lower pH despite its lower initial acid concentration. [2 marks]
Practice marking scheme
Answer
Y has ten times the initial acid concentration of X. X has ten times the hydrogen-ion concentration of Y. HCl dissociates essentially completely, whereas only a small fraction of Y ionises.
Working
The analytical concentration ratio is . The hydrogen-ion ratio is . Acid concentration counts all acid supplied; pH depends on free hydrogen ions. HCl is strong and essentially fully dissociates, while the weak acid in Y is mostly undissociated.
Marking criteria
- States that Y has ten times the initial acid concentration of X. [1 mark]
- Calculates/states that X has ten times the H⁺ concentration of Y. [1 mark]
- Explains essentially complete dissociation of HCl. [1 mark]
- Explains partial ionisation of Y and distinguishes strength from concentration. [1 mark]
Practice question aligned to the current QCAA syllabus; review the worked solution and marking criteria.
View the QCAA syllabusCompare your working with the guide above.