Calculate the pH of a solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Give your answer correct to two decimal places.
Answer
13.00
The correct answer is 13.00 — Use the relation to obtain .
Step-by-step solution
- Sodium hydroxide is a strong base and dissociates completely: .
- Therefore the concentration of hydroxide ions equals the molarity of the solution: .
- Calculate pOH using .
- Use the relation to obtain .
Common mistake: Forgetting to subtract pOH from 14 or using the acid formula directly.
Concept tested: pH of strong bases
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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