why is borax less base than ammonia? thanks
To understand why borax is less basic than ammonia, we need to examine the chemical structures and properties of these two compounds.
Borax, also known as sodium borate, has the chemical formula Na2B4O7·10H2O. It is a salt that contains boron, oxygen, sodium, and water molecules. Borax dissociates in water to release hydroxide ions (OH-) which makes it a source of bases in solution.
Ammonia, on the other hand, is a compound with the chemical formula NH3. It is a gas at room temperature and dissolves readily in water to form a basic solution. Ammonia acts as a base in solution by accepting a proton (H+) from water, forming the ammonium ion (NH4+) and hydroxide ion (OH-).
Now, when comparing the basicity of borax and ammonia, we need to consider their abilities to release hydroxide ions. Ammonia is a stronger base than borax because it more readily donates hydroxide ions to the solution. This is due to the higher concentration of hydroxide ions formed from the dissociation of ammonia in water. On the other hand, borax produces a relatively lower concentration of hydroxide ions in solution.
To determine the relative basicity of borax and ammonia experimentally, you can measure their pH values in solution. A lower pH value indicates a more basic solution. Comparing the pH values of borax and ammonia solutions will provide quantitative evidence of the difference in their basicity.
In summary, borax is less basic than ammonia because it releases a lower concentration of hydroxide ions in solution.