On what can the pH of a salt depend?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: On the nature of the acid and base from which it is formed
The pH of a salt solution is governed mainly by the strengths of the parent acid and base and by the hydrolysis of the salt ions. A strong-acid–strong-base salt such as sodium chloride is nearly neutral, whereas a strong-acid–weak-base salt such as ammonium chloride is acidic, and a weak-acid–strong-base salt such as sodium carbonate is basic. Thus option C is correct; colour, shape, and container size do not determine pH.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
On the nature of the acid and base from which it is formed
Why is this the correct answer?
The pH of a salt solution is governed mainly by the strengths of the parent acid and base and by the hydrolysis of the salt ions. A strong-acid–strong-base salt such as sodium chloride is nearly neutral, whereas a strong-acid–weak-base salt such as ammonium chloride is acidic, and a weak-acid–strong-base salt such as sodium carbonate is basic. Thus option C is correct; colour, shape, and container size do not determine pH.
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.
