Question

which is a characteristic of a strong base?

it turns pink phenolphthalein colorless.
it turns blue litmus paper red.
it releases \\(\text{h}^+\\) ions into a solution.
it removes \\(\text{h}^+\\) ions from solution.

Explanation:

Define the properties of bases

Bases are substances that accept hydrogen ions \((\text{H}^+)\) in solution.

Analyze indicator reactions

Bases turn colorless phenolphthalein pink and red litmus paper blue.

Evaluate the given options

• "It turns pink phenolphthalein colorless" is incorrect; bases turn phenolphthalein pink.
• "It turns blue litmus paper red" is incorrect; this is a property of acids.
• "It releases \(\text{H}^+\) ions into a solution" is incorrect; acids release \(\text{H}^+\) ions.
• "It removes \(\text{H}^+\) ions from solution" is correct; bases accept/remove \(\text{H}^+\) ions.

Answer:

• (A) It turns pink phenolphthalein colorless.
• (B) It turns blue litmus paper red.
• (C) It releases \(\text{H}^+\) ions into a solution.
• (D) It removes \(\text{H}^+\) ions from solution. (Correct answer)