Why can ammonium chloride solution be acidic and sodium carbonate solution be basic?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: The nature of a salt depends on its parent acid and base
The governing idea is salt hydrolysis and the relative strength of the parent acid and base. Ammonium chloride comes from a strong acid and weak base; the ammonium ion hydrolyses and makes the solution acidic. Sodium carbonate comes from a weak acid and strong base; carbonate hydrolysis produces hydroxide ions, making it basic. Thus A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
The nature of a salt depends on its parent acid and base
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing idea is salt hydrolysis and the relative strength of the parent acid and base. Ammonium chloride comes from a strong acid and weak base; the ammonium ion hydrolyses and makes the solution acidic. Sodium carbonate comes from a weak acid and strong base; carbonate hydrolysis produces hydroxide ions, making it basic. Thus A is 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.
