If a solution is described as basic, which of the following is true: (i) 3H+ < 3OH-, (ii) 3H+ = 3OH-, or (iii) 3H+ > 3OH-?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a basic solution: A basic solution is one where the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH^-) is greater than the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
2. Recall the relationship between H⁺ and OH^- in a neutral solution: In a neutral solution at 25°C, the concentrations of H⁺ and OH^- are equal, each being 1.0 x 10^-7 M.
3. Identify the condition for a basic solution: For a solution to be basic, the concentration of OH^- must be greater than that of H⁺.
4. Analyze the given expression: The expression '3H⁺ 3OH^-' suggests a comparison between the concentrations of H⁺ and OH^-.
5. Determine the correct inequality: For the solution to be basic, the correct inequality should be H⁺ < OH^-.

Key Concepts

Acid-Base Theory

Acid-base theory explains the behavior of acids and bases in solution. According to the Brønsted-Lowry theory, acids donate protons (H+) while bases accept protons. In a basic solution, the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) exceeds that of hydrogen ions (H+), leading to a higher pH value.

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, a pH of 7 is neutral, and a pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution. The relationship between H+ and OH- concentrations is inversely related to pH, where higher OH- concentrations correspond to higher pH values.

Ion Concentration Comparison

In a basic solution, the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) is greater than that of hydrogen ions (H+). This can be expressed mathematically as [OH-] > [H+]. Therefore, when comparing the quantities of H+ and OH- in a basic solution, the correct relationship is that the number of H+ ions is less than the number of OH- ions, which aligns with the statement 3H+ < 3OH-.