What kind of solution is formed in water by the solid left after heating baking soda?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Basic
The governing concept is the thermal decomposition of sodium hydrogen carbonate. On heating, baking soda, NaHCO₃, produces sodium carbonate, Na₂CO₃, along with carbon dioxide and water: 2NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O. Sodium carbonate hydrolyses in water and produces hydroxide ions, so its solution is basic. Therefore, option A is correct; it is not acidic, oily, or non-conducting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Basic
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is the thermal decomposition of sodium hydrogen carbonate. On heating, baking soda, NaHCO₃, produces sodium carbonate, Na₂CO₃, along with carbon dioxide and water: 2NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O. Sodium carbonate hydrolyses in water and produces hydroxide ions, so its solution is basic. Therefore, option A is correct; it is not acidic, oily, or non-conducting.
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.