A solution with a pH of 3 is how many times as acidic as a solution with a pH of 5? (Ignore significant figures for this problem.)
A) 0.6 times as acidic
B) 2 times as acidic
C) 100 times as acidic
D) 15 times as acidic
E) 8 times as acidic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning every change in pH by one unit represents a tenfold change in acidity. Therefore, a solution with a pH of 3 is 100 times as acidic as a solution with a pH of 5 (since it is two pH units lower). Option C is the only answer that represents a 100-fold difference in acidity between the two solutions.

A Solution with a PH of 3 Is How Many