Question

the ph of hcl acid solution is 3. does it mean that it only has hydronium ions? if not how are oh- ions generated?

Answer 1

Dear student,

HCl dissociate as,
HCl--->H+ + Cl-

Since HCl is a strong acid, Cl- forms a weak conjugate base.
Therefore, it reacts with water to form OH- ions as,

Cl-+H2O---->HCl+OH-

The rate of this reaction is very slow since it forms the HCl back.
Thus, very less amount of hydroxide ion form ans re present in the solution ni very less amount compared to the hydronium ion.

Regards