Question

'Aqueous $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$ is alkaline in nature.'
Answer whether the above statement is true or false.

• A. True
• B. false
• C. Cannot be determined
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

True

When dissolved in water, $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$ dissociates into two ions. The carbonate can pull hydrogen ions away from water molecules, leaving hydroxide ions. The hydroxide ions are what causes the solution to be basic.

$N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$ is salt of weak acid $\left(H_{2}C{O}_3\right)$ and strong base $\left(NaOH\right)$. $C{O}_3^{2-}$ is hydrolysed forming free $O{H}^{-}$ thus it is alkaline in nature Thus, $C{O}_3^{2-}+2H_{2}O\rightleftharpoons 2O{H}^{-}+H_{2}C{O}_3$.

Hence, the statement is true.