Which pair can generally form a salt that gives a neutral solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Strong acid and strong base
A salt made from a strong acid and a strong base generally gives a neutral aqueous solution because its ions do not appreciably hydrolyse to produce excess hydrogen or hydroxide ions. Sodium chloride, formed from hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, illustrates this rule and has a pH close to 7 in dilute solution. Weak acid–strong base salts tend to be basic, while strong acid–weak base salts tend to be acidic.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Strong acid and strong base
Why is this the correct answer?
A salt made from a strong acid and a strong base generally gives a neutral aqueous solution because its ions do not appreciably hydrolyse to produce excess hydrogen or hydroxide ions. Sodium chloride, formed from hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, illustrates this rule and has a pH close to 7 in dilute solution. Weak acid–strong base salts tend to be basic, while strong acid–weak base salts tend to be acidic.
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.