Question

Investigate the reaction between citric acid and sodium hydroxide.

Answer 1

The reaction between citric acid and sodium hydroxide is an acid-base neutralization reaction, resulting in the formation of water and a salt, sodium citrate.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the acid-base neutralization reaction between citric acid (a weak organic acid found in citrus fruits) and sodium hydroxide (a strong base), the hydrogen ions from citric acid combine with hydroxide ions from sodium hydroxide to form water (H2O). Simultaneously, the remaining ions form a salt, sodium citrate (C6H5Na3O7).

This type of reaction is common when an acid and a base are mixed, and it plays a significant role in various applications, such as in food preparation, where citric acid is often used as a natural preservative and sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment.

Answer 2

The reaction between citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) results in the formation of sodium citrate (Na₃C₆H₅O₇) and water (H₂O).

Step-by-step explanation:

Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) is a weak organic acid commonly found in citrus fruits and is known for its sour taste. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong base. When these two substances react, citric acid donates hydrogen ions (H⁺) from its acidic groups (carboxylic acid groups) to sodium hydroxide, which provides hydroxide ions (OH⁻). This reaction leads to the formation of sodium citrate (Na₃C₆H₅O₇), a salt, and water (H₂O). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

C₆H₈O₇ + 3NaOH → Na₃C₆H₅O₇ + 3H₂O

This reaction is a neutralization reaction, where the acid and base react to form a salt and water. Sodium citrate, the resulting salt, is commonly used as a food additive and buffering agent in various products due to its ability to regulate acidity.

Understanding the chemical properties and reactions of citric acid with sodium hydroxide is essential in various fields such as chemistry, food science, and pharmaceuticals. This reaction demonstrates the neutralization process and the formation of a salt compound, sodium citrate, which has practical applications in industries ranging from food production to pharmaceutical formulations.