Why does 1.0 M acidic solution H3BO3 have a higher pH value than 1.0 M HNO3?

Question

I thought strong acids reacted 100% in solution and therefore would release more H3O+ ions, making the solution more acidic than a weak acid which didn't react 100%?

Answer 1

You are correct that a strong acid such as HNO3 will ionize 100% and release more H+ than a comparable concentration of a weak acid such as H3BO3. And thus, the pH of the weak acid would be expected to be higher (LESS ACIDIC) than the strong acid. Remember, the higher the pH, the LESS acidic.