What range of pKa values is typically associated with strong acids?

Strong acids are characterized by their ability to dissociate completely in solution, resulting in a greater concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺). The pKa value is a measure of the strength of an acid, with lower pKa values indicating stronger acids. Typically, strong acids have pKa values that fall within the range of 1 to 3, and while the upper limit can sometimes reach around 5 for very strong acids, it's generally accepted that a pKa value of up to approximately 5 still aligns with the characteristics of strong acids.

The correct answer captures the standard understanding that strong acids tend to have lower pKa values, reflecting increased acidic strength. A range of 1-5 encompasses strong acids that are often seen in practice, making it the most suitable choice.

In contrast, the other ranges suggest levels of acid strength that are associated more closely with weak acids, which do not fully dissociate in solution and thus have higher pKa values. This implies that they do not display the same level of reactivity or tendency to donate protons, characteristic of stronger acids.