Question

A solution has a pH of 7. Tell how would you:

(i) increase the pH

Answer 1

1. pH

pH classifies the nature of the solution based on acidic, basic, and neutral. The value of pH for a neutral solution is 7.

To increase the pH of a neutral solution, add a base. As a result, the value of pH value of a solution increases. If we add an acid to a neutral solution, the pH value of the solution decreases.

2. Explanation for an increase in pH

(i) The addition of a base to a substance tends to increase the value of pH. For example, if Sodium hydroxide $\left(\mathrm{NaOH}\right)$ is added to a neutral solution, the pH of the solution will increase.

Thus, to increase the pH of a neutral solution, a base must be added.