Chapter 19, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : An aqueous solution of sodium hydrogen carbonate is base to be explained.

Concept Introduction : Bases are substances that ionize in aqueous solutions to produce hydroxide ions $\left({\text{OH}}^{-}\right)$ .

Answer to Problem 75A

The equation in an aqueous solution of carbonate ion is given as

  ${\text{HCO}}_{\text{3}}^{-}\left(aq\right)+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\left(l\right)\to {\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}\left(aq\right)+{\text{OH}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$

Due to the formation of hydroxide ion and abstraction of a proton by carbonate ion, the solution is basic in nature.

Explanation of Solution

Salt and water are created when bases and acids react.

A strong acid and strong base react completely to form a neutral solution. A neutralization reaction is a name for this kind of reaction.

Strong acid and weak base are neutralized to create the salt sodium hydrogen carbonate.

In the aqueous solution, the sodium breaks apart from hydrogen carbonate.

So, the reaction is given as

  ${\text{HCO}}_{\text{3}}^{-}\left(aq\right)+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\left(l\right)\to {\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}\left(aq\right)+{\text{OH}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$

Protons from the water are attracted by the carbonate negative ion. As a result of the formation of hydroxide ions, a basic solution is formed.