Question

What will be the pH of a solution made by dissolving a salt in water?

(a) pH > 7
(b) pH = 7
(c) pH < 7
(d) any of the above

Answer 1

The pH of a salt solution in water can be acidic (pH < 7), neutral (pH = 7), or basic (pH > 7) depending on the acid-base properties of the ions in the salt.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding pH of Salt Solutions

The pH of a solution made by dissolving a salt in water can be (d) any of the above. The effect a salt has on the pH of a solution depends on the acid-base properties of the ions that make up the salt. If the solution has a pH < 7, it is considered acidic. Conversely, if the solution has a pH > 7, it is basic. A solution is neutral when the pH is equal to 7. This is the case with pure water, which has a neutral pH of exactly 7. However, with different salts, the pH can vary depending on the strength of the acid and base that form the salt.

For example:

• With a pH greater than 7, milk of magnesia is basic.
• Pure water, with a pH of 7, is neutral.
• With a pH of less than 7, wine is acidic.