Final answer:
The concentration of hydroxide ions ([OH-]) can be calculated using the equation [OH-] = 1.0 x 10^-14 / [H3O+]. Given [H3O+] = 2.35 x 10^-3 M, [OH-] is 4.26 x 10^-12 M.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to determine the concentration of hydroxide ions ([OH-]), a key parameter in chemical solutions, the formula [OH-] = 1.0 x 10^-14 / [H3O+] is employed.
Given a specific value for the concentration of hydronium ions ([H3O+]) as 2.35 x 10^-3 M, substitution of this value into the formula yields [OH-] = 1.0 x 10^-14 / (2.35 x 10^-3).
Solving this mathematical expression results in [OH-] = 4.26 x 10^-12 M.
This signifies that in the given solution, the concentration of hydroxide ions is determined by the reciprocal of the concentration of hydronium ions, following the principles established by the ion product constant for water (Kw).
The calculated [OH-] value provides crucial insights into the nature of the solution and its pH characteristics, forming a fundamental aspect of chemical analysis in aqueous systems.