Which aqueous solution is expected to produce the highest amount of hydroxide ions?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Sodium hydroxide
Hydroxide ions are responsible for the basic character of an aqueous solution. Sodium hydroxide is a soluble strong base, so it dissociates almost completely in water: NaOH → Na⁺ + OH⁻. Ethanoic acid produces H⁺ ions and is weak, sodium chloride is approximately neutral in water, and carbon dioxide water is acidic because carbonic acid forms. Therefore sodium hydroxide is expected to provide the greatest OH⁻ concentration, making option A correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Sodium hydroxide
Why is this the correct answer?
Hydroxide ions are responsible for the basic character of an aqueous solution. Sodium hydroxide is a soluble strong base, so it dissociates almost completely in water: NaOH → Na⁺ + OH⁻. Ethanoic acid produces H⁺ ions and is weak, sodium chloride is approximately neutral in water, and carbon dioxide water is acidic because carbonic acid forms. Therefore sodium hydroxide is expected to provide the greatest OH⁻ concentration, making option A correct.
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.
