ഡിസം . 18, 2024 08:26 Back to list

2 m naoh ph

Understanding the pH of 2% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) Solution

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), commonly known as lye or caustic soda, is a highly alkaline compound widely used in various industrial processes, laboratory settings, and even household cleaning products. A 2% NaOH solution is often encountered in chemical experiments, manufacturing processes, and educational settings. Understanding the pH of this solution is critical for both practical applications and theoretical chemistry.

What is pH?

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is quantified on a scale ranging from 0 to 14, with values below 7 indicating acidity, values of exactly 7 representing neutrality, and values above 7 denoting alkalinity. The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning each whole number change represents a tenfold change in hydrogen ion concentration. In simple terms, a lower pH means a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺), indicating more acidic conditions, while a higher pH corresponds to a higher concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻), indicating more alkaline conditions.

Properties of Sodium Hydroxide

As a strong base, sodium hydroxide dissociates completely in water

\[ \text{NaOH} \rightarrow \text{Na}^+ + \text{OH}^- \]

This characteristic is vital when considering the pH of a NaOH solution. The presence of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) significantly influences the solution's pH level. A 2% solution of NaOH means that there are 2 grams of NaOH in 100 milliliters of solution. The molecular weight of NaOH is approximately 40 grams per mole, so a 2% solution contains about 0.05 moles of NaOH per liter of solution, leading to a substantial concentration of hydroxide ions.

Calculating the pH of 2% NaOH Solution

To determine the pH of a 2% NaOH solution, we look at the hydroxide ion concentration. In a 2% solution

1. 2 grams of NaOH dissolved in 100 mL of water corresponds to 0.05 moles of NaOH per liter. 2. Since NaOH dissociates completely, the concentration of OH⁻ ions is also 0.05 M.

Next, we can calculate the pOH, which is given by

\[ \text{pOH} = -\log[\text{OH}^-] \]

2 m naoh ph

Calculating the pOH

\[ \text{pOH} = -\log[0.05] \approx 1.30 \]

Since pH and pOH are related through the following equation

\[ \text{pH} + \text{pOH} = 14 \]

We can easily find the pH

\[ \text{pH} = 14 - \text{pOH} = 14 - 1.30 = 12.70 \]

Thus, the pH of a 2% NaOH solution is approximately 12.70, making it a highly alkaline solution.

Applications and Safety

The high pH of sodium hydroxide solutions makes them incredibly effective for various applications such as

- Cleaning Agents NaOH is commonly found in drain cleaners and oven cleaners due to its ability to break down fats and proteins. - Chemical Manufacturing It is used in the production of soap, paper, textiles, and various chemicals. - Food Processing In controlled amounts, NaOH can be used to cure olives and make hominy.

However, working with sodium hydroxide poses significant safety hazards. Its caustic nature can cause severe chemical burns upon contact with skin or eyes. Therefore, it is essential to employ appropriate safety measures, including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the pH of a 2% sodium hydroxide solution is vital in various chemical and industrial applications. With a pH of approximately 12.70, this solution demonstrates strong alkaline properties, making it effective in numerous uses but also necessitating caution during handling. Familiarity with pH concepts and the properties of sodium hydroxide not only enhances our comprehension of chemical solutions but also underscores the importance of safety in chemistry.

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