Question

What effect does the concentration of H$^{+}$ ions have on the nature of the solution? Do basic solutions also have H$^{+}$(aq) ions? If yes. then why are these basic? Under what soil condition do you think a farmer would treat the soil of his farm with quicklime.

Answer 1

Hint: This question is based on the concept of acidic, and basic nature of the ions. We know that concentration of H$^{+}$ ions, and OH$^{-}$ ions help in determining the nature of the solution. According to the Arrhenius concept, quicklime is a basic compound.

Complete step by step solution:
Firstly, let us know the effect of H$^{+}$ ions, it directly affects the acidity of a solution. More the concentration of H$^{+}$ ions, there will be an increase in the acidity of a solution, making it an acidic solution.

Second, we know, in the basic solutions, the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH$^{-}$) is more than the H$^{+}$ (aq) ions. They are known as basic solutions, but yes, they do have presence of H$^{+}$ (aq) ions in the solution.

Third, if the soil turns out to be acidic, or is acidic; it is not suitable for agriculture. So, to neutralise the soil, farmers would use any base. Then soil is treated with quicklime, or slaked lime to make it fit for the cultivation.

In the last, we can conclude that the acidity increases with increase in concentration, and farmers will use the base to neutralize the soil.

Note: Don’t get confused as the farmer can neutralise the soil mainly by using the calcium compounds acting as a base, even the calcium carbonate is also used. The concentration of H$^{+}$ ions affects the pH of a solution, as more acidic the solution pH will get lower.