pH Calculation Formula for H₂SO₄:
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The pH calculation for sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is based on the formula pH = -log(2C), where C is the concentration in mol/L. This assumes complete dissociation of H₂SO₄, providing [H⁺] ≈ 2C.
The calculator uses the pH formula:
Where:
Explanation: Sulfuric acid is a strong diprotic acid that fully dissociates, providing two H⁺ ions per molecule, hence the factor of 2 in the calculation.
Details: Accurate pH calculation is essential for understanding acid strength, chemical reactions, industrial processes, and environmental monitoring where sulfuric acid is involved.
Tips: Enter the concentration of H₂SO₄ in mol/L. The value must be valid (concentration > 0). The calculator assumes complete dissociation of the acid.
Q1: Why is there a factor of 2 in the formula?
A: H₂SO₄ is a diprotic acid that provides two H⁺ ions per molecule when fully dissociated, hence [H⁺] ≈ 2C.
Q2: Does this calculation assume complete dissociation?
A: Yes, this simplified formula assumes H₂SO₄ is fully dissociated, which is generally valid for dilute solutions.
Q3: What are typical pH values for sulfuric acid solutions?
A: pH values range from very acidic (near 0 for concentrated solutions) to mildly acidic for very dilute solutions.
Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This calculation is less accurate for very concentrated solutions where complete dissociation doesn't occur and activity coefficients differ significantly from 1.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other acids?
A: No, this specific calculator is designed for sulfuric acid. Other acids have different dissociation patterns and require different calculations.