To determine the most likely pH of the solution, let's consider the nature of the ions present. A solution that contains many hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and few hydrogen ions (H⁺) is characterized as a basic solution. The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14.
1. Understanding pH Levels:
- Acidic solutions: Have a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) and a pH less than 7.
- Neutral solutions: Have an equal concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻), with a pH equal to 7.
- Basic solutions: Have a higher concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and a pH greater than 7.
2. Given Conditions: The solution contains many hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and few hydrogen ions (H⁺). This clearly indicates that the solution is basic.
3. Analyzing pH Options:
- pH = 2: This is strongly acidic.
- pH = 6: This is slightly acidic.
- pH = 7: This is neutral.
- pH = 9: This is basic.
Since we have determined that the solution is basic, the most appropriate pH value from the given choices is the one that is greater than 7, which indicates a basic nature.
4. Conclusion: Among the available options, the pH value of 9 is the most likely for a solution that contains many hydroxide ions and few hydrogen ions.
Therefore, the most likely pH of the solution is 9.
