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Example of pH in acid-base equilibria
The pH of an acid-base equilibrium depends on the strength of the acid and base involved. For example, a strong acid such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) will have a low pH, while a weak acid such as acetic acid (CH3COOH) will have a higher pH.
In the case of a strong acid-strong base equilibrium, such as HCl and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the pH will be neutral at 7. This is because the strong acid and base will completely dissociate into their respective ions, H+ and Cl- for HCl, and Na+ and OH- for NaOH, resulting in a neutral solution.
In a weak acid-strong base equilibrium, such as acetic acid and NaOH, the pH will be basic. This is because the weak acid will only partially dissociate into its ions, resulting in a higher concentration of OH- ions from the strong base, which will increase the pH.
In a strong acid-weak base equilibrium, such as HCl and ammonia (NH3), the pH will be acidic. This is because the strong acid will completely dissociate into its ions, resulting in a higher concentration of H+ ions, which will decrease the pH.
In a weak acid-weak base equilibrium, such as acetic acid and ammonia, the pH will depend on the relative strengths of the acid and base. If the acid is stronger than the base, the pH will be acidic, and if the base is stronger than the acid, the pH will be basic.
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