7.1 The conductivity of three acid solutions, A, B and C, as shown below is investigated at the same temperature - NSC Physical Sciences - Question 7 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 7
7.1 The conductivity of three acid solutions, A, B and C, as shown below is investigated at the same temperature.
A 0.1 mol·dm⁻³ H₂SO₄(aq)
B 0.1 mol·dm⁻³ HNO₃(aq)
C... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:7.1 The conductivity of three acid solutions, A, B and C, as shown below is investigated at the same temperature - NSC Physical Sciences - Question 7 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
7.1.1 Define the term electrolyte.
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Answer
An electrolyte is a substance that, when dissolved in water, separates into ions and is capable of conducting electricity. Common examples include acids, bases, and salts, which dissociate into positively and negatively charged ions in solution.
Step 2
7.1.2 In which solution, A or B, will the bulb be brighter? Give a reason for the answer by referring to the types of acids.
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Answer
The bulb will be brighter in solution A (H₂SO₄). This is because H₂SO₄ is a strong diprotic acid, which means it can donate more than one proton (H⁺) per molecule. Thus, it produces a higher concentration of ions in solution compared to HNO₃, which is a monoprotic acid and only donates one proton.
Step 3
7.1.3 In which solution, B or C, will the bulb be brighter? Give a reason for the answer by referring to the types of acids.
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Answer
The bulb will be brighter in solution B (HNO₃). HNO₃ is a strong acid that ionizes completely in solution, producing a higher number of ions compared to CH₃COOH, which is a weak acid and only partially ionizes. Therefore, solution B has a greater conductivity due to the complete ionization of HNO₃.