Question

Which of the following substances does not undergo hydrolysis in aqueous solution?

• A. Sodium acetate
• B. Ammonium chloride
• C. Sodium carbonate
• D. Sodium chloride

Hint:

For hydrolysis of salts: - Salts formed from a strong acid and a strong base do not undergo hydrolysis. - Salts formed from a weak acid and a strong base undergo hydrolysis to give a basic solution. - Salts formed from a strong acid and a weak base undergo hydrolysis to give an acidic solution.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Hydrolysis, the reaction of a salt with water, yields either acidic or basic solutions.
- Sodium acetate (\( \text{CH}_3\text{COONa} \)), derived from a strong base (NaOH) and weak acid (acetic acid), is a basic salt that hydrolyzes to create a basic solution. 
- Ammonium chloride (\( \text{NH}_4\text{Cl} \)), formed from a weak base ($NH_3$) and strong acid (HCl), is an acidic salt that hydrolyzes to create an acidic solution. 
- Sodium carbonate (\( \text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3 \)), originating from a strong base (NaOH) and weak acid (carbonic acid), is a basic salt that hydrolyzes to create a basic solution. 
- Sodium chloride (\( \text{NaCl} \)), composed of a strong base ($NaOH$) and strong acid ($HCl$), is a neutral salt. Its constituent ions ($Na^+$ and $Cl^{⁻}$) do not react with water, thus preventing hydrolysis.