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When is an aqueous solution described as neutral?
AWhen it contains no ions at all
BWhen hydronium exceeds hydroxide ions
CWhen hydroxide exceeds hydronium ions
DWhen hydronium and hydroxide are equal
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. When hydronium and hydroxide are equal
1. Hydronium and hydroxide ions are present in pure water and in every aqueous solution.
2. Neutral means their concentrations are equal, not that they are absent.
3. More hydronium than hydroxide makes the solution acidic.
4. Less hydronium than hydroxide makes it basic.
_Source: OpenStax Chemistry (CC BY 4.0), Ch 14 "Acid-Base Equilibria", section 14.2 pH and pOH_
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