MCAT General Chemistry Question 137: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 137

2. Which of the following is closest to the pH of a solution containing 5 mM H2SO4?

  • A. 1
  • B. 2
  • C. 3
  • D. 4

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

First, convert the concentration to 5 × 10-3 M. Next, because sulfuric acid is a strong acid, we can assume that, for the majority of sulfuric acid molecules (although not all), both protons will dissociate. The concentration of hydrogen ions is therefore 2 × 5 × 10-3, or 10-2. The equation for pH is pH = -log [H+]. If [H+] = 10-2 M, then pH = 2.

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