If a salt is formed from a strong acid and a weak base, how will its aqueous solution generally be?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Acidic
The governing concept is salt hydrolysis and the relative strengths of the parent acid and base. A salt made from a strong acid and a weak base contains a cation that hydrolyses water and produces hydronium ions; for example, ammonium chloride gives an acidic solution because NH4+ reacts with water. Therefore option A is correct. A strong-acid/strong-base salt is generally neutral, while a weak-acid/strong-base salt is generally basic. Colour cannot determine acidity.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Acidic
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is salt hydrolysis and the relative strengths of the parent acid and base. A salt made from a strong acid and a weak base contains a cation that hydrolyses water and produces hydronium ions; for example, ammonium chloride gives an acidic solution because NH4+ reacts with water. Therefore option A is correct. A strong-acid/strong-base salt is generally neutral, while a weak-acid/strong-base salt is generally basic. Colour cannot determine acidity.
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.
