Question

What is the pH of a solution of \( 0.01 \, \text{M} \, \text{HCl} \)?

• A. \( 1 \)
• B. \( 2 \)
• C. \( 4 \)
• D. \( 0 \)

Hint:

For strong acids like \( \text{HCl} \), the pH is simply calculated by taking the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Data comprehension.- \( \text{HCl} \) concentration: \( [\text{H}^+] = 0.01 \, \text{M} \)- \( \text{HCl} \) is a strong acid; complete dissociation means \( [\text{H}^+] \) equals the acid concentration.Step 2: pH formula application.Formula: \[\text{pH} = -\log [\text{H}^+]\]Substitute \( [\text{H}^+] \): \[\text{pH} = -\log(0.01)\]Calculate pH: \[\text{pH} = -\log(10^{-2}) = 2\] Answer: The solution's pH is \( 2 \).