What is the usual nature of an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Basic
Sodium carbonate is the salt of a weak acid, carbonic acid, and a strong base, sodium hydroxide. In water, the carbonate ion reacts partially with water: CO3^2− + H2O ⇌ HCO3− + OH−. The formation of hydroxide ions gives the solution a basic nature. Hence option C is correct. It is not acidic or neutral, and the solution is certainly ionic and aqueous.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Basic
Why is this the correct answer?
Sodium carbonate is the salt of a weak acid, carbonic acid, and a strong base, sodium hydroxide. In water, the carbonate ion reacts partially with water: CO3^2− + H2O ⇌ HCO3− + OH−. The formation of hydroxide ions gives the solution a basic nature. Hence option C is correct. It is not acidic or neutral, and the solution is certainly ionic and aqueous.
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.
