a solution in which [h+] is 1000 times greater than [oh−].,

What is a strong acid? This phrase may seem to be an oxymoron, but it actually describes the chemical characteristics of a strong acid. In this post we will explore what makes an acid “strong,” and how that affects the pH in water. A strong acid is one that has a pH value of less than zero. It also means the chemical substance can dissociate in water to produce ions, such as protons and hydroxide (OH) ions. The following are examples of strong acids: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, citric acid — all with a -log[H+] lower than 0. The term “strong” is used because it takes more energy for these chemicals to break apart into their constituent parts when compared to other substances not considered “strong.” This greater amount of energy required will change how much protonated molecules or hydronium ion ([H]+), there will be in the solution. Acids, such as vinegar and lemon juice are also considered strong acids because they have a pH value of less than zero while sodium hydroxide ([NaOH]) is not considered to be one since it has a greater negative log[H+] (-12) when compared with hydrochloric acid — for instance. Stronger acids will produce more protons and consequently decrease the amount of hydrogen ions present in an acidic solution. This is because those stronger molecules break apart into their constituent parts faster which then produces more H+. The following table compares water that contains both types of acid by percentage: Section Contents: What is a Strong Acid? – Blog