Three solutions have pHs of \(3,7,\) and \(11 .\) Which solution is basic? Which is acidic? Which is neutral?

An acidic solution is one that has an excess of hydrogen ions (H+), and it's characterized by a pH value less than 7 on the pH scale. Imagine squeezing a lemon into water; it tastes tangy because of the presence of citric acid, an example of an acidic substance.

According to the textbook exercise, the solution with a pH of 3 is acidic. This is much lower than 7, indicating a high concentration of hydrogen ions. In daily life, besides lemon juice, vinegar and battery acid are common acidic solutions.

It’s crucial to understand that the lower the pH value, the higher the acidity. For instance, a solution with a pH of 2 is more acidic than one with a pH of 4. Acidic solutions can conduct electricity due to the presence of ions, a property used in batteries.

A basic solution, sometimes referred to as alkaline, contains an excess of hydroxide ions (OH−) and is identified by a pH value greater than 7. Think of baking soda dissolved in water; it feels slippery and has a soapy taste, characteristics of a basic solution.

In the given exercise, the solution with a pH of 11 is basic. This value is significantly higher than the neutral pH of 7, which indicates a greater concentration of hydroxide ions. Everyday substances that are basic include household ammonia and bleach.

The higher the pH value, the more basic a solution is. For example, a solution with a pH of 13 is stronger in its basicity than one with a pH of 9. Basic solutions can also conduct electricity and are often used in cleaning agents due to their ability to neutralize acids.

A neutral solution is neither acidic nor basic; it's right in the middle of the pH scale with a value of 7. This balance occurs because the concentrations of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions are equal. Pure water is the most common example of a neutral solution and it's often used as a reference point when measuring the pH of other substances.

According to our exercise, a solution with a pH of 7 is identified as neutral, meaning it doesn't have the reactive properties typical of acids or bases. Neutral solutions do not change the color of pH indicators, which is a simple way to test pH levels. They also exhibit equal conductivity to both acidic and basic solutions, albeit typically lower, since they have fewer free ions.