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

15503 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain why the second ionisation energy of boron is higher than the first ionisation energy of boron.


An acid can be either strong or weak, explain the difference between strong and weak acids.


How to balance equations?


why increasing the temperature will increase the rate of reaction


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning