Question

Select from the following compounds which is not a base :

• A. Sodium hydroxide
• B. Calcium hydroxide
• C. Sodium sulphate
• D. Zinc oxide

Hint:

Always check if a substance releases OH$^-$ ions in water — only then is it classified as a base.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)$_2$] are potent bases frequently utilized in labs and industrial settings. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is amphoteric, displaying both basic and acidic characteristics. Sodium sulphate (Na$_2$SO$_4$) is a neutral salt, resulting from the reaction of a strong acid (sulphuric acid) and a strong base (sodium hydroxide), and lacks basic properties. Thus, the correct answer is Sodium sulphate.