What factor does the pH scale increase by when moving one whole number?

What factor does the pH scale increase by when moving one whole number?

• A. 2
• B. 5
• C. 10
• D. 20

Answer: (C)

The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number change on the scale represents a tenfold change in acidity or alkalinity. When the pH increases by one whole number, it indicates that the solution is ten times more basic (or ten times less acidic) than it was at the lower pH. For example, a solution with a pH of 6 is ten times more acidic than one with a pH of 7. This logarithmic nature of the scale is crucial for understanding chemical interactions in various cleaning agents used in carpet cleaning, as different products have specific pH levels that affect their cleaning efficacy and safety.

The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number change on the scale represents a tenfold change in acidity or alkalinity. When the pH increases by one whole number, it indicates that the solution is ten times more basic (or ten times less acidic) than it was at the lower pH. For example, a solution with a pH of 6 is ten times more acidic than one with a pH of 7. This logarithmic nature of the scale is crucial for understanding chemical interactions in various cleaning agents used in carpet cleaning, as different products have specific pH levels that affect their cleaning efficacy and safety.