Which salt is formed when sodium hydroxide reacts with hydrochloric acid?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Sodium chloride
This is a neutralisation reaction: \(\mathrm{NaOH + HCl \rightarrow NaCl + H_2O}\). The \(\mathrm{Na^+}\) ion from NaOH combines with the \(\mathrm{Cl^-}\) ion from HCl to form sodium chloride, so option A is correct. Sodium carbonate would require a carbonate ion, \(\mathrm{CO_3^{2-}}\), which is not present in the reactants. Exam tip: in neutralisation, identify the salt by combining the cation of the base with the anion of the acid.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Sodium chloride
Why is this the correct answer?
This is a neutralisation reaction: \(\mathrm{NaOH + HCl \rightarrow NaCl + H_2O}\). The \(\mathrm{Na^+}\) ion from NaOH combines with the \(\mathrm{Cl^-}\) ion from HCl to form sodium chloride, so option A is correct. Sodium carbonate would require a carbonate ion, \(\mathrm{CO_3^{2-}}\), which is not present in the reactants. Exam tip: in neutralisation, identify the salt by combining the cation of the base with the anion of the acid.
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.
