why is ph a measure of the strength of an acid or a base?

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why is ph a measure of the strength of an acid or a base?

2007-09-16 02:41:14 · 2 answers · asked by Denise 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry

2 answers

Ph is a logarithmic measure of the hydrogen ion concentration where 0 is the strongest acid, 7 is neutral (pure water) and 14 is the strongest base. Substances subject to acid attack (for example) will be affected more strongly if a strong concentration of the hydrogen ion is present. 6 is ten times stronger than 7, etc.

2007-09-16 02:51:15 · answer #1 · answered by Kes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋

It isn't - directly. Only when combined with an idea of the concentration of an acid or an alkali can you say whether it is weak or not.

If the acid is dilute and the pH is very low (approx zero), then it's strong. If the pH is towards 7, though, it's weak.

And so on.

2007-09-16 02:47:56 · answer #2 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋