Predict the relative pH (greater than 7, less than 7, etc.)...

Predict the relative pH (greater than 7, less than 7, etc.) for water solutions of the following salts. Table 9.9 may be useful. For each solution in which the pH is greater or less than 7 , explain why and write a net ionic equation to justify your answer. a. Sodium hypochlorite, NaOCl ( HOCl is a weak acid) b. Sodium formate, $\mathrm{NaCHO}_2$ c. Potassium nitrate, $\mathrm{KNO}_3$ d. Sodium phosphate, $\mathrm{Na}_3 \mathrm{PO}_4$

Predict the relative pH (greater than 7, less than 7, etc.) for water solutions of the following salts. Table 9.9 may be useful. For each solution in which the pH is greater or less than 7 , explain why and write a net ionic equation to justify your answer.
a. Sodium hypochlorite, NaOCl ( HOCl is a weak acid)
b. Sodium formate, $\mathrm{NaCHO}_2$
c. Potassium nitrate, $\mathrm{KNO}_3$
d. Sodium phosphate, $\mathrm{Na}_3 \mathrm{PO}_4$

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Key Concepts

Conjugate Acid-Base Pairs

Conjugate acid-base pairs consist of two species that transform into each other by the gain or loss of a proton. In the context of salt solutions, the ion from a salt is the conjugate of the weak acid or weak base from which it originates. The strength of the parent acid or base determines the extent to which the conjugate ion interacts with water, influencing the overall pH of the solution.

Net Ionic Equations

Net ionic equations provide a concise way to represent the actual chemical changes occurring in a reaction by omitting the spectator ions. In the analysis of salt hydrolysis, these equations highlight the important interactions between the hydrolyzing ion and water, showing the formation of either hydroxide or hydronium ions that directly affect the pH.

Salt Hydrolysis

Salt hydrolysis refers to the reaction between the ions produced by a dissolved salt and water. This reaction can generate hydronium (H3O+) or hydroxide (OH–) ions depending on whether the ion is derived from a weak acid or a weak base, thereby shifting the pH of the solution. Understanding salt hydrolysis is fundamental in predicting whether a salt solution will be acidic, basic, or neutral.

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