The aqueous solution of sodium phosphate (Na₃PO₄) is:

Correct answer: B. Basic

  • A. Acidic
  • B. Basic
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Amphoteric

Explanation

Sodium phosphate is the salt of a strong base (NaOH) and a weak acid (HPO₄²⁻). The phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻) is a strong conjugate base and will hydrolyze water to produce OH⁻ ions, making the solution basic.

Last updated

About Acids, Bases and Salts

Acid and base behaviour is explained through the Bronsted-Lowry transfer of protons and the Lewis donation or acceptance of electron pairs. The topic includes pH, pOH, ionisation and water equilibrium, plus salt formation and hydrolysis, where a salt solution may become acidic, basic or neutral.

Practise Acids, Bases and Salts

314 free Acids, Bases and Salts MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this

Chemistry is on 12 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

Related questions