Ammonia is a weak base.

Question

Potassium hydroxide is a
strong base. Which
statement is correct?
(1 point)
A solution of
potassium hydroxide
will always have a
higher pH than a
solution of ammonia.
A solution of
potassium hydroxide
will always have
more OH ions than
a solution of
ammonia.
–
A solution of
potassium hydroxide
will always have a
lesser concentration
of solute than a
solution of ammonia.
A solution of
potassium hydroxide
will always have
greater conductivity
than a solution of
ammonia.

Answer 1

To analyze the statements, let’s break down the two bases involved:

1. Ammonia (NH₃): This is a weak base, meaning that it does not fully dissociate in solution. The extent of dissociation is low, so the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) will be less compared to a strong base at the same concentration.

2. Potassium hydroxide (KOH): This is a strong base and fully dissociates in solution, meaning that it releases a greater concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) compared to a weak base like ammonia.

Now let's evaluate the statements:

1. "A solution of potassium hydroxide will always have a higher pH than a solution of ammonia."

   • This is generally correct because KOH, being a strong base, will typically produce a higher pH than a weak base like ammonia, given the same initial concentrations. However, the specific pH comparison can depend on the concentrations used.

2. "A solution of potassium hydroxide will always have more OH ions than a solution of ammonia."

   • This is also generally true because KOH fully dissociates, providing more OH⁻ ions than what produces from ammonia.

3. "A solution of potassium hydroxide will always have a lesser concentration of solute than a solution of ammonia."

   • This statement is incorrect as it depends on the number of moles of each solute in the solution. KOH, being a strong base, can be present in similar or even less mass compared to ammonia for high concentrations.

4. "A solution of potassium hydroxide will always have greater conductivity than a solution of ammonia."

   • This statement is typically true as well because strong bases like KOH dissociate completely, providing more ions in solution which leads to higher conductivity.

In summary, all statements considered, the most accurate would be the first two: potassium hydroxide will generally have a higher pH and will have more hydroxide ions than ammonia, provided they are compared at the same molarity. However, since you can only choose one, the first or second might be preferred based on the specific context of the question expected.