Question

Q. Why is aqueous solution of sodium chloride neutral when the aqueous solution of sodium bi carbonate is basic?

Answer 1

Sodium chloride is a neutral salt prepared from the reaction of a strong acid (HCl) and a strong base (NaOH). Thus, it possess neither acidic nor basic properties, because of which aqueous solution of sodium chloride is neutral.

NaOH (aq) + HCl (aq) → NaCl (aq) + H₂O (l)

However, sodium bicarbonate is a basic salt prepared from a weak acid and a strong base. Hence, it possesses basic properties, because of which its aqueous solution is basic.