A salt can be acidic, basic, or neutral. Why is sodium chloride generally considered neutral?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: It is formed from a strong acid and a strong base
The governing concept is the nature of salts formed by neutralisation. Sodium chloride is produced by HCl, a strong acid, and NaOH, a strong base: HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O. Neither ion significantly hydrolyses water, so its aqueous solution is generally neutral, close to pH 7. Therefore option A is correct; the other statements are chemically false or irrelevant.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
It is formed from a strong acid and a strong base
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is the nature of salts formed by neutralisation. Sodium chloride is produced by HCl, a strong acid, and NaOH, a strong base: HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O. Neither ion significantly hydrolyses water, so its aqueous solution is generally neutral, close to pH 7. Therefore option A is correct; the other statements are chemically false or irrelevant.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
