Question

Which of the following substances does not undergo hydrolysis in aqueous solution?

• A. Sodium acetate
• B. Ammonium chloride
• C. Sodium carbonate
• D. Sodium chloride

Hint:

To quickly identify these, look for the "Parents." If both the parent acid and parent base are Strong (like HCl, H\(_2\)SO\(_4\), HNO\(_3\) and NaOH, KOH), the salt will not hydrolyze and the pH will stay at 7.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Salt hydrolysis occurs when the ions of a salt react with water to produce acidity or alkalinity. This typically happens with salts derived from a weak acid or a weak base. Salts of strong acids and strong bases do not undergo hydrolysis and form neutral solutions.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation
1. Sodium acetate (CH\(_3\)COONa): Salt of a weak acid (Acetic acid) and a strong base (NaOH). The acetate ion (\(CH_3COO^-\)) undergoes anionic hydrolysis, making the solution basic. 2. Ammonium chloride (NH\(_4\)Cl): Salt of a strong acid (HCl) and a weak base (Ammonium hydroxide). The ammonium ion (\(NH_4^+\)) undergoes cationic hydrolysis, making the solution acidic. 3. Sodium carbonate (Na\(_2\)CO\(_3\)): Salt of a weak acid (Carbonic acid) and a strong base (NaOH). It undergoes hydrolysis to form a basic solution. 4. Sodium chloride (NaCl): Salt of a strong acid (HCl) and a strong base (NaOH). Both \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions are spectator ions; they do not react with water.

Step 3: Final Answer
Sodium chloride does not undergo hydrolysis.