In order to find the [H+] ion content of H2SO4 (Sulphuric Acid), why must you divide by two after using the formula for pH calculation?

This is because H2S04 is a diprotic acid. If we look at how the acid dissiociates, we can see that:

H2SO4----------> 2H++SO42-

Since there are two H+ ions dissociating, using the formula for pH would give the H+ ion content within the whole acid, i.e 2H+

Dividing it by two would equate to a singular H+, which is what the question asks.

Answered by Jamil J. Chemistry tutor

11564 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the features of a dynamic equilibrium?


A bromoalkane contains 34.9% carbon and 6.60% hydrogen by mass. The rest of the mass is made up by bromine. What is the empirical formula of this molecule?


Describe the features of a benzene ring that define its reactivity. How does phenol differ from this?


Draw the full structual diagram of ethyl-ethanoate, labeling relevent bond angles and explain why the molecule has this structure.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences