Is each of the following statements true or false? (a) All strong acids contain one or more H atoms. (b) A strong acid is a strong electrolyte. (c) A 1.0-M solution of a strong acid will have pH = 1.0.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of a strong acid. A strong acid is one that completely ionizes in solution, releasing hydrogen ions (H+).
2. Step 2: Evaluate statement (a). Consider whether all strong acids must contain hydrogen atoms. Since strong acids release H+ ions, they must contain hydrogen atoms. Therefore, statement (a) is true.
3. Step 3: Evaluate statement (b). A strong electrolyte is a substance that completely dissociates into ions in solution. Since strong acids completely ionize, they are strong electrolytes. Therefore, statement (b) is true.
4. Step 4: Evaluate statement (c). Use the formula for pH: \( \text{pH} = -\log[H^+] \). For a 1.0 M solution of a strong acid, the concentration of \( H^+ \) ions is 1.0 M, so \( \text{pH} = -\log(1.0) \). Calculate this to determine if the pH is 1.0.
5. Step 5: Conclude the truth value of each statement based on the evaluations in the previous steps.

Key Concepts

Strong Acids

Strong acids are substances that completely dissociate in water, releasing all of their hydrogen ions (H+) into the solution. This characteristic distinguishes them from weak acids, which only partially dissociate. Common examples of strong acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Understanding the nature of strong acids is essential for evaluating their properties and behaviors in chemical reactions.

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are substances that, when dissolved in water, produce ions and thus conduct electricity. Strong acids are classified as strong electrolytes because they fully dissociate into ions in solution, allowing for efficient electrical conductivity. This property is crucial in various applications, including biological systems and electrochemical processes, where the movement of ions is fundamental.

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, with values ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, while values below 7 indicate acidity and above 7 indicate basicity. For strong acids, a 1.0 M solution typically has a pH close to 0, not 1, due to complete dissociation. Understanding the pH scale is vital for predicting the behavior of acids and bases in chemical reactions.