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Kw and alkaline pH

Acids and bases
AQA 7405
ORIGINAL

Kw = [H+][OH-] = 1.00 x 10−14 mol2 dm−6 at 298 K

Convert pH to [H+] first, then use Kw to find [OH-].

Board and spec code confirmed against AQA 7405 · registry checked 2026-07-11How this checking works

Work it, then mark it

Do each calculation on paper first, then reveal the mark scheme and tick the marks you actually earned — the same way you should mark past papers.

Q1

A solution has pH 11.40 at 298 K. Calculate its hydroxide-ion concentration. Kw = 1.00 x 10−14 mol2 dm−6.

[3 marks]

Total for this question: 3

Do the calculation on paper first — then mark it.

Where the marks get lost

  • Using 14 - pH without checking the temperature is 298 K.
  • Dividing [H+] by Kw rather than Kw by [H+].

Exam tip: At 298 K, pH + pOH = 14 is a shortcut, but the Kw method remains explicit and transferable.

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