Chapter 19, Problem 94A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The aqueous solution of sodium ethanoate is basic is to be written in the form of an equation.

Concept Introduction : Bases are substances that ionize in aqueous solutions to produce hydroxide ions.

Answer to Problem 94A

The equation that shows the aqueous solution of sodium ethanoate is basic is shown below:

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COO}}^{-}+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\to {\text{CH}}_3\text{COOH}\text{+}{\text{OH}}^{-}$

The hydroxide ion is formed.

Explanation of Solution

Sodium ethanoate is dissociated into ethanoate ion and sodium ion.

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}\text{COONa}\to {\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COO}}^{-}+{\text{Na}}^{+}$

The ethanoate ion in aqueous solution is given as follows:

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COO}}^{-}+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\to {\text{CH}}_3\text{COOH}\text{+}{\text{OH}}^{-}$

The ethanoate ion is a strong conjugate base of acetic acid which can deprotonate the water molecule thereby increase in pH of the solution.