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The pH of a 0.0020 M HCl solution is 2.70. Here's how to calculate it:
1. Understanding pH
pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution. It is calculated using the formula: pH = -log[H+] where [H+] is the molar concentration of hydrogen ions (H+).
A pH of 7 is neutral, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are basic.
2. HCl is a Strong Acid
HCl (hydrochloric acid) is a strong acid, meaning it completely ionizes in water. This means that 0.0020 M HCl produces 0.0020 M H+ ions.
3. Calculating the pH
pH = -log[H+] = -log(0.0020) = 2.70
Regarding OH- and H+:
OH- (Hydroxide ions) are associated with bases. They are the opposite of H+ ions.
H+ (Hydrogen ions) are associated with acids.
Water Dissociation: In pure water, there is a balance between H+ and OH- ions. This is described by the ion product of water (Kw): Kw = [H+][OH-] = 1.0 x 10^-14 at 25°C.
To calculate [OH-]: You can use the Kw equation and the [H+] you already calculated. For example, in this case: [OH-] = Kw / [H+] = (1.0 x 10^-14) / (0.0020) = 5.0 x 10^-12 M
Let me know if you have any further questions about pH or acid-base chemistry!