3. Seawater is slightly basic (pH 8). A sample of seawater is diluted with pure water. What effect will this dilution have on the pH of the sample? Briefly explain your answer.

Question

3. Seawater is slightly basic (pH 8). A sample of seawater is diluted with pure water. What effect will this dilution have on the pH of the sample? Briefly explain your answer.

Answer 1

The pH represent the negative log of the [H+]. So, diluting the sample with water will dilute the [H+] thereby increasing the pH.

Example:

pH = 8 and [H⁺] = 1x10^-8 M

Dilute 10x and [H⁺] = 1x10^-9 M and pH = 9