The solution with a pH of 2.30 is characterized as an acidic solution since it is below the neutral pH of 7. The corresponding answer is A. an acidic solution.
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pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution.
pH equal to 7 indicates a neutral solution.
pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution.
Since the pH is 2.30, the solution is an acidic solution .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are given a solution with a pH of 2.30 and asked to characterize it as acidic, basic, neutral, or a buffer solution.
Recalling pH Scale Recall that the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, a pH of 7 indicates a neutral solution, and a pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution. A buffer solution resists changes in pH upon the addition of small amounts of acid or base.
Determining Solution Type Since the given pH is 2.30, which is less than 7, the solution is acidic.
Final Answer Therefore, the correct characterization of the solution is an acidic solution .
Examples
Understanding pH is crucial in many real-world applications. For example, in agriculture, knowing the pH of the soil helps farmers determine which crops will grow best. Acidic soil (low pH) is suitable for plants like blueberries and azaleas, while alkaline soil (high pH) is better for crops like lavender and spinach. In medicine, the pH of blood is tightly regulated to ensure proper bodily function. A deviation from the normal pH range can indicate a medical condition. Similarly, in environmental science, monitoring the pH of lakes and rivers helps assess water quality and the impact of pollution.