In order to find the [H+] ion content of H2SO4 (Sulphuric Acid), why must you divide by two after using the formula for pH calculation?

This is because H2S04 is a diprotic acid. If we look at how the acid dissiociates, we can see that:

H2SO4----------> 2H++SO42-

Since there are two H+ ions dissociating, using the formula for pH would give the H+ ion content within the whole acid, i.e 2H+

Dividing it by two would equate to a singular H+, which is what the question asks.

JJ
Answered by Jamil J. Chemistry tutor

13608 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Which chemical would have a higher boiling point 1,3-dimethylbutane or hexane


Why is methylamine a stronger base than phenylamine?


What are the oxidation numbers of each element in these examples: a) H2SO4 b) N2 c) NH4+


balance the following equation: Na2O + HCl --> NaCl + H2O


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences