Mg(OH)2 is a sparingly soluble compound, in this case a base, with a solubility product, Ksp, of 5.61×10−11. It is used to control the pH and provide nutrients in the biological (microbial) treatment of municipal wastewater streams.

Based on the given value of the Ksp, what is the molar solubility of Mg(OH)2 in pure H2O?

1.27 x 10⁻⁴M

Explanation:

For a 2 to 1 ionization ratio, solubility in pure water can be calculated using the formula S = ∛(Ksp/27) = ∛(5.61 x 10⁻¹¹/27 = 1.27 x 10⁻⁴M.

Mg(OH)₂ ⇄ Mg⁺² + 2OH⁻ => Ksp = [Mg⁺²][OH⁻]² = (x)(2x)² = 4x³

Solve for 'x' => x = Solubility = ∛Ksp/4

water at room temperature is flowing through a pipe with pressure taps located 10 ft apart along one section of the pipe, which are connected to a mercury (s=13.6) manometer.