In what way(s) do bases work to increase the pH of a solution?

• A. Increasing the concentration of hydroxide ions.
• B. Decreasing the concentration of hydrogen ions.
• C. Decreasing the concentration of hydroxide ions.
• D. Increasing the concentration of hydrogen ions.
• E. Both a & b.
• F. Both c & d.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution. A higher pH indicates a lower concentration of hydrogen ions, making the solution more basic.
2. Recognize that bases are substances that can accept hydrogen ions (H⁺) or donate hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in a solution.
3. Consider how bases increase the pH: they either increase the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) or decrease the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
4. Analyze the options: Increasing hydroxide ions (option a) will neutralize hydrogen ions, thus increasing pH. Decreasing hydrogen ions (option b) directly increases pH.
5. Conclude that both increasing hydroxide ions and decreasing hydrogen ions will result in a higher pH, making options a and b correct.