Question

An aqueous solution of sodium chloride is prepared in distilled water. The pH of this solution is:

• A. 6
• B. 8
• C. 7
• D. 3

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand the nature of sodium chloride (NaCl)
Sodium chloride is a salt formed from the neutralization of a strong acid (hydrochloric acid, HCl) and a strong base (sodium hydroxide, NaOH).

Step 2: Effect of dissolving NaCl in water
When NaCl is dissolved in distilled water, it dissociates completely into Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions. These ions do not undergo hydrolysis and hence do not affect the concentration of H⁺ or OH⁻ ions in water.

Step 3: Resulting pH of the solution
Since the solution contains neutral ions and does not change the H⁺ ion concentration, the solution remains neutral.

Step 4: Conclusion
The pH of an aqueous solution of sodium chloride in distilled water is 7, indicating a neutral solution.

Final Answer:
7