DP Chemistry (first assessment 2025)
Question 19M.2.HL.TZ1.2b(i)
Date | May 2019 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 2] | Reference code | 19M.2.HL.TZ1.2b(i) |
Level | HL | Paper | 2 | Time zone | TZ1 |
Command term | Determine | Question number | b(i) | Adapted from | N/A |
b(i).
[Maximum mark: 2]
19M.2.HL.TZ1.2b(i)
(b(i))
The pH of an aqueous solution of benzoic acid at 298 K is 2.95. Determine the concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution, using section 2 of the data booklet.
[2]
Markscheme
ALTERNATIVE 1:
[H+] «= 10−2.95» = 1.122 × 10−3 «mol dm−3» [✔]
«[OH−] = =» 8.91 × 10−12 «mol dm−3» [✔]
ALTERNATIVE 2:
pOH = «14 − 2.95 =» 11.05 [✔]
«[OH−] = 10−11.05 =» 8.91 × 10−12 «moldm−3» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept other methods.
Examiners report
Many students could correctly calculate the hydroxide concentration, but some weaker students calculated hydrogen ion concentration only.

Syllabus sections
Reactivity 3. What are the mechanisms of chemical change? » Reactivity 3.1—Proton transfer reactions » Reactivity 3.1.5—The ion product constant of water, Kw, shows an inverse relationship between [H+] and [OH–]. Kw = [H+] [OH–]. Recognize solutions as acidic, neutral and basic from the relative values of [H+] and [OH–].