Question

Two acids A and B have pH values 1 and 5 respectively. Which is stronger acid A or B?

Answer 1

1. Acids

Acids are generally sour. This property is associated with hydrogen ions, which means a more acidic solution will have more hydrogen ions to trigger a more pungent sour taste. The pH value for an acidic solution is always below 7.

2. Explanation of a stronger acid

1. The acids with greater efficiency to give out hydrogen ions to a large extent are called strong acids. Strong acids have a pH range of 1 to 3. Some examples of strong acids are Hydrochloric acid $\left(\mathrm{HCl}\right)$ and Sulphuric acid $\left({\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4\right)$. Thus, acid A is a strong acid.
2. The acids with lower efficiency to give out hydrogen ions are called weak acids. Weak acids have a pH range of 4 to 6. Some examples of weak acids are Acetic acid $\left({\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{COOH}\right)$ and Hydrofluoric acid $\left(\mathrm{HF}\right)$. Thus, acid B is a weak acid.

Therefore, acid ‘A’, having a pH of 1, will be stronger than acid ‘B’.