Which chemical lowers pH when added to water?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $25.99Unlock all

Prepare for the ADEQ Water Treatment Levels 1 and 2. Study with tailored questions, in-depth explanations, and interactive quizzes. Elevate your skills and ensure exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which chemical lowers pH when added to water?

Explanation:
When a chemical dissolves in water, it can change the pH by releasing or consuming hydrogen ions. Alum and ferric salts are acid-forming coagulants: they hydrolyze in water to form metal hydroxides and produce hydrogen ions, which lowers the pH. Sodium hydroxide, on the other hand, is a strong base that neutralizes hydrogen ions and increases pH, so it does not lower pH. That’s why both alum and ferric salts reduce pH, while sodium hydroxide raises it.

When a chemical dissolves in water, it can change the pH by releasing or consuming hydrogen ions. Alum and ferric salts are acid-forming coagulants: they hydrolyze in water to form metal hydroxides and produce hydrogen ions, which lowers the pH. Sodium hydroxide, on the other hand, is a strong base that neutralizes hydrogen ions and increases pH, so it does not lower pH. That’s why both alum and ferric salts reduce pH, while sodium hydroxide raises it.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy