Understanding pH and Hydrogen Ion Concentration
To find the ratio of hydrogen ion concentrations in solutions A and B, we need to understand the relationship between pH and hydrogen ion concentration.
pH and Hydrogen Ion Concentration
- pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution.
- The formula to convert pH to hydrogen ion concentration (H+) is:
H+ concentration = 10^(-pH)
Calculating Hydrogen Ion Concentrations
- For Solution A (pH = 3):
- H+ concentration = 10^(-3) = 0.001 M (molar)
- For Solution B (pH = 5):
- H+ concentration = 10^(-5) = 0.00001 M (molar)
Finding the Ratio
- To find the ratio of hydrogen ion concentrations of A to B:
- Ratio = [H+]_A / [H+]_B
- Ratio = 0.001 M / 0.00001 M
Calculating the Ratio
- Simplifying the calculation:
- Ratio = 0.001 / 0.00001 = 100
Conclusion
- The ratio of the hydrogen ion concentration in Solution A to Solution B is 100:1.
- This means that Solution A is 100 times more acidic than Solution B due to its higher hydrogen ion concentration.
Understanding these concepts is essential for grasping the behavior of acids and bases in various chemical contexts.

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