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.

JJ
Answered by Jamil J. Chemistry tutor

14991 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe and explain the trend in reactivity of Group 2 elements with chlorine as the group is descended?


State what is meant by the term 'first ionisation energy' and explain why the first ionisation energy of barium is lower than that of calcium


A solution of ethanoic acid in water has a concentration of 3 g/dm^3. Given that the pKa of ethanoic acid is 4.76, calculate the pH of this solution.


Explain trend in why the ionisation energies increase across the period


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning