Effect of HCl on Ammonia Equilibrium

Medium General Chemistry Acids And Bases

Consider the following reaction taking place in a closed system:

NH₃(aq) + H₂O(l) <=> NH₄⁺(aq) + OH^-(aq)

In this equilibrium reaction, ammonia (NH₃) acts as a weak base when dissolved in water. A student is attempting to determine the pH of the solution formed. Which of the following statements accurately describes the effect of adding hydrochloric acid (HCl), a strong acid, to this equilibrium system?

The pH of the solution will increase due to the precipitation of ammonia.

The equilibrium will shift to the right, resulting in a decrease in pH.

The concentrations of NH4+ and OH- will remain unchanged.

The equilibrium will shift to the left, leading to an increase in pH.

Hint

Submitted2.8K

Correct1.6K

% Correct57%