Question

For an H+ concentration, [H+], of 4.3 x 10-4 M, would this be acidic, neutral or basic? Why?

I'm assuming that because it is an H+ it would be acidic and H+ means acidic and OH- means base. Is this correct? And is there a better formula for this equation?

Answer 1

It's acidic because the (H^+) is greater than 1E-7M and it's important that you draw that comparison; otherwise, I could ask if a solution of (H^+) was 4.3 x 10-10. If you base your answer on the word (H^+) you would be wrong because (H^+) of 4.3E-10 has a pH of 9.4 and you know pH > 7 is basic. So 1E-7 is the neutral point, > 1E-7 is acid (and 4.3E-4 is greater) while <1E-7 is basic (and 4.3E-10 is < 1E-7).

Answer 2

Ok, thank you!