What is the pH of 0.1 M HCl?
pH = - log_{10} [ H^+ ]
A. -0.1
B. -1
C. 0
D. 0.1
E. 1
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What we can confidently assume when we first see this question, is the complete dissociation of HCl. Because it is a strong acid, we expect the composition of the acid to be in protons and chloride ions.
Next, we state the well known formula:
pH= -log_{10} (H^+)
With 0.1M of HCl, we should be able to say:
pH= -log_{10} (0.1) which is pH= -log_{10} (1\times10^1)
Therefore, pH= 1-log_{10} which is equal to 1. And our answer is E.
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