NANP Board Practice Exam

Which statement is true regarding pH?

1. Higher hydrogen presence indicates more alkalinity

2. Less hydrogen presence indicates more alkalinity

3. More hydrogen presence indicates more alkalinity

4. More hydrogen presence does not affect alkalinity

The correct answer is: Higher hydrogen presence indicates more alkalinity

The correct statement regarding pH is that less hydrogen presence indicates more alkalinity. In the context of pH, alkalinity refers to the capacity of a solution to neutralize acids, and it is measured on a scale from 0 to 14. A higher pH value indicates a more basic (alkaline) solution, which corresponds to lower concentrations of hydrogen ions (H^+). Conversely, a lower pH value means a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, signifying acidity rather than alkalinity. Therefore, as the hydrogen ion concentration decreases, the pH increases, reflecting a more alkaline environment. Understanding this relationship is crucial for interpreting pH levels in various contexts, such as in biological systems or environmental science. The other options misrepresent the relationship between hydrogen ion concentration and alkalinity, which can lead to confusion regarding acid-base chemistry. By recognizing that increased alkalinity is associated with reduced hydrogen ion concentration, one can better understand the significance of pH in measurement and application.