Which salt is likely to show acidic nature in aqueous solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Ammonium chloride
Salt behaviour depends on the strengths of the acid and base from which the salt is formed. Ammonium chloride comes from hydrochloric acid, a strong acid, and ammonia or ammonium hydroxide, a weak base. The ammonium ion reacts with water and produces hydronium ions, making the solution acidic. Sodium carbonate is basic, while sodium chloride and potassium chloride are nearly neutral. Hence option B is the unambiguous answer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Ammonium chloride
Why is this the correct answer?
Salt behaviour depends on the strengths of the acid and base from which the salt is formed. Ammonium chloride comes from hydrochloric acid, a strong acid, and ammonia or ammonium hydroxide, a weak base. The ammonium ion reacts with water and produces hydronium ions, making the solution acidic. Sodium carbonate is basic, while sodium chloride and potassium chloride are nearly neutral. Hence option B is the unambiguous answer.
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.